No matter your age or activity level, making healthy food and drink choices provide your body with energy now and fuel for the future. Plus, the benefits of eating healthy can add up over time.
Ways we can Fuel for the Future:
Eat with the environment in mind.
Buying foods in season and shopping locally, when possible, not only benefits the planet, but it also may help you keep food costs down. Enjoying more plant-based meals and snacks is another option. Try more meatless meals or substituting some or all the meat in recipes with plant-based proteins.
See a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).
Good nutrition can positively influence our health in many ways. Plus, no single food or food group provides all the nutrients we need for good health. It’s important to learn what choices work best for you so that a healthy eating routine becomes a way of life. Ask your doctor for a referral to an RDN and find one who specializes in your unique needs.
Stay nourished and save money.
When prices of food and other goods increase, buying healthy foods may not feel like a priority. Yet, many healthy foods are filling, cost less and help manage or reduce your chances of developing certain chronic diseases. A little planning before you shop can go a long way toward choosing foods that are affordable, satisfying and nutritious.
Eat a variety of food.
Fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy play a role in fueling our bodies. Choosing a variety is important, since foods differ in the nutrients they provide. Follow MyPlate’s Daily Recommendations for each food group to get the nutrients you need at each life stage. Eat foods in various forms including fresh, frozen, canned and dried.
Make tasty foods at home.
To increase variety in your eating routine, try new flavors and foods from around the world. Another way to eat healthier and save money is to learn cooking and meal preparation skills. This can help you find creative ways to use leftovers rather than tossing them.
Putting it all together
Finding ways to incorporate the foods you enjoy while getting the nutrients you need is important at any age. The nutrition we choose can be influenced by a variety of things, such as taste, cost, culture, convenience and cooking skills. For help in reaching your health goals, consult our registered dietitian nutritionist, Debra Loder, RDN – 928-668-1803.
Registered Dietitian Nutritionists are the nutrition experts and can provide individualized nutrition advice to help you Fuel for the Future.