The Importance of Good Nutrition

Your daily food choices make a big difference in your health.

Why It's Important

Most people know good nutrition and physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight. But the benefits of good nutrition go beyond weight. Good nutrition can help:

Reduce the risk of some diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, some cancers, and osteoporosis

* Reduce high blood pressure

* Lower high cholesterol

* Improve your well-being

* Improve your ability to fight off illness

* Improve your ability to recover from illness or injury

* Increase your energy level

* What Is Good Nutrition?

* Good nutrition means your body gets all the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals it needs to work its best. Plan your meals and snacks to include nutrient-dense foods that are also low in calories.

Tips for Eating Well

Eat plenty of fruit - To get the benefit of the natural fiber in fruits, you should eat fruit whole rather than as juices.

Eat plenty of vegetables - Eat a variety of colors and types of vegetables every day.

Eat plenty of whole grains - At least half of the cereals, breads, crackers, and pastas you eat should be made from whole grains.

Choose low fat or fat free milk - These provide calcium and vitamin D to help keep your bones strong.

Choose lean meats - Lean cuts of meat and poultry have less fat and fewer calories but are still good sources of protein.

Try other sources of protein - Try replacing meats and poultry with fish, beans, or tofu.