Nutrition Tips for the New Year!

2023 is in full swing and many people have already set their goals or are currently working on setting new goals. According to the latest Gallup poll, 7 in 10 Americans plan to set goals in 2023. Of those goal-setters, 80% are setting health or nutrition goals!

Clearly, there are many of us who want to be healthier in 2023, and eating nutritiously is a huge part of a healthy lifestyle! The CDC lists the following benefits to eating a nutritious diet:

• May help you live longer
• Keeps skin, teeth, and eyes healthy
• Supports muscles, strengthens bones, and boosts immunity
• Lowers risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers
• Supports healthy pregnancies and breastfeeding
• Helps the digestive system function
• Helps achieve and maintain a healthy weight

In children, there are even more benefits to eating a healthy diet including supporting healthy growth and brain development! Everyone knows that eating healthy is important, but sometimes it can be hard to stick to your healthy diet goals. We want to pass along some tips to help you keep your nutrition goals this year!

1. MAKE A PLAN – Map out your meals and snacks for the week and make sure you have the necessary ingredients.

2. SHOP SMART – Stick to the grocery list and shop for healthy, whole foods.  A healthy diet includes regularly eating vegetables, fruits, whole grains, protein, low-fat milk, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish such as salmon.

3. GET COOKING – Prepare meals at home with fresh ingredients. Diets high in ultra-processed foods can contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. These foods contain low quality ingredients such as added sugar, fats, and refined grains which usually means they are low in fiber, protein, and micronutrients. 

4. EAT MINDFULLY – Enjoy each bite and take your time. Stop eating when you feel full. Drinking water before and during your meal can also help with digestion.

5. STAY HYDRATED – Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps your body function optimally. Limit sugary drinks such as soda, fruit juices, and sweetened tea.

6. MAINTAIN GOOD GUT HEALTH – A disruption in gut health has been linked to chronic diseases and digestion problems. Eating probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and sauerkraut as well as fiber can help maintain good health in your gut.

7. ENSURE VITAMIN D INTAKE – Vitamin D levels can help with bone strength, and depression, and can boost your immune system and lower your risk for cancer. Milk, calcium-fortified orange juice, and salmon are all good sources of vitamin D. It is a good idea to get your levels tested so you can use supplements, if necessary.