- A healthy diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free dairy and includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans and nuts. It’s low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt and added sugars.
- Make calories count by thinking nutrient-rich rather than "good" or "bad" foods. Choose foods that are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients — and are lower in calories. Beware of portion sizes! Even healthy foods can add up to too many calories if food portions are more than you need.
- Go for variety; choose foods from all the food groups. Fruits and vegetables can be fresh, canned or frozen; treat yourself to locally grown produce that’s in season. Vary protein choices with more fish, beans and peas. Include at least three servings daily of whole grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice or pasta.
-Make mealtime a family affair. Eating meals together provides the opportunity to help children develop a healthy attitude toward food, and helps establish a regular meal schedule.
-Balance physical activity with healthy diet — it’s your best recipe for managing weight and promoting overall health and fitness, not the latest fad diet. Be physically active at least 30 minutes every day.
More questions or concerns? Consult a Registered Dietitian
When you need food and nutrition information based on fact, or need to know how a healthy diet improves health and fights disease, rely on qualified professionals — registered dietitians are credentialed food and nutrition experts, translating the science of nutrition into practical solutions for healthy living.
A registered dietitian can develop a personalized nutrition plan for individuals of all ages, and offer Medical Nutrition Therapy to treat medical conditions and their associated symptoms with a specifically tailored diet and careful nutritional monitoring. You can reach a registered dietitian by contacting the Providence Diabetes Center at (937) 396-8137; email diabetesinfo@provmedgroup.com
Is a Pre-Diabetes Class for you?
It’s estimated that "pre-diabetes" affects as many as 57 million Americans, meaning they already exhibit many of the symptoms of, and are at special risk for, type 2 diabetes. Meal planning and physical activity are keys to combating pre-diabetes, and are important components of a formal pre-diabetes class. Learn more by calling the Providence Diabetes Center at (937) 396-8137; email diabetesinfo@provmedgroup.com