MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- Winter is over and spring has usually begun once March rolls around, invoking thoughts of outdoor activity and days spent on the beach. With that in mind, good nutrition is necessary for people wanting to get their bodies “swimsuit-ready” for the warm months ahead.
Every March since 1973, the American Dietetic Association has been educating Americans on nutrition and healthy eating habits with an information campaign that began as National Nutrition Week. The campaign extended to a month-long observance in the 1980s when Americans became more health-conscious.
The ADA’s theme for National Nutrition Month is “Eat smart, stay healthy.” As part of the military family, this theme usually extends throughout all months of the year for Tri-Command Marines and sailors who are required to stay physically fit for duty. Yet, this time of year affords them the opportunity to re-confirm their commitment to staying healthy.
“During the holiday season, we tend to eat more liberally as a part of all the festivities, which can mean a few unwanted pounds,” said Crystal Dilliard, Semper Fit Health Promotions Coordinator, registered nurse and Lifestyle and Weight Management Consultant. “Also, the cold weather may curtail our physical activity a little bit. As the warm weather begins to surface in March, it’s a good time to re-focus on nutrition.”
Semper Fit Health Promotions has joined in the campaign by stressing healthy eating habits to Tri-Command personnel and their family members throughout the month of March. The staff has planned to have an information booth, complete with visual aids and literature at the Parris Island Triathlon scheduled to take place March 27. Water bottles and nutrition bars will be available free of charge. Patrons can also get their body fat percentages calculated at the booth.
Semper Fit also served two different post-race breakfasts to participants of the MCCS-SC St. Patrick’s Day 5K Run at MCAS Beaufort March 5. One was “heart healthy” and feature lowered levels of fat, salt and cholesterol to help promote healthy eating.
In order to understand what healthy eating involves, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has developed Dietary
Guidelines for Americans as a basic reference for individuals trying to get fit or stay healthy. Their first recommendation is to eat a variety of foods, which will ensure the proper amount of vitamins and minerals is consumed.
“You want to optimize your energy,” said Dilliard. “By following a simple plan, you’ll not only maintain a healthy weight, you’ll feel better.”
According to the USDA Food Guide Pyramid, daily food intake should include: 6-11 servings of bread, cereal, rice or pasta; 3-5servings of vegetables; 2-4 servings of fruit; 2-3 servings of milk, yogurt or cheese; and 2-3 servings of meat, poultry, fish, dry beans, eggs or nuts. Daily diet should also be low in fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, sugars, salt and sodium. Alcoholic beverage consumption should be done so only in moderation, if at all.
The USDA also recommends that food consumption must be balanced with physical activity in order to maintain or improve weight. Maintaining a healthy weight can greatly reduce the chances of things like high blood pressure and heart disease.
“It’s all about balancing caloric intake with physical activity,” said Dilliard. “When trying to lose weight, you have to find a number that works for you. You must be careful to stay within the requirements needed for your body to function properly. You don’t want to compromise your health.”
Semper Fit regularly offers nutrition classes to anyone interested in achieving a healthier lifestyle and meeting all of the healthy eating guidelines. Some Semper Fit staff members are certified Lifestyle Weight Management Consultants. To schedule a class, or for an individual consultation with one of their professionals, call 228-7010.
For more information on USDA recommendations, log on to their Food and Information Center Web site at www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/index.html.