Changing old eating habits
National Nutrition Month

***image1***March is National Nutrition Month and throughout the month, dieticians from Landstuhl Regional Medical Center and the Ramstein Health and Wellness Center are educating adults and children about general nutrition.

One of the dieticians’ main nutritional topics is New 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans that will one day affect the food pyramid, package labeling and menu items in school cafeterias.

“Healthy fats are part of a healthy diet,” said Sue Walker, LRMC registered dietician. “It’s the type of fat that makes a difference and monounsaturated fats such as olive or canola oil are the best sources.”

The guidelines now call for even more servings of fruits and vegetables. The range is now 2.5 to 6.5 cups (five to 13 servings) of fruits and veggies recommended for a 1,200 to 3,200 calorie diet level.

“This change is not surprising when you consider all of the bioflavinoids, micronutrients, phytochemicals and fiber present in fresh fruits and veggies,” said Ms. Walker.

An average 2,000 calorie diet needs approximately three cups per week of dark green vegetables, two cups per week of orange vegetables, three cups per week of dried beans, three cups per week of starchy vegetables and seven cups per week of other vegetables.

Another important step in attaining great health is to kick the soda habit.
“These empty, sugar-filled drinks leech calcium from both your bones and your teeth,” she said.

The new guidelines are calling for more fiber, too. Good foods that are high in fiber include brown rice, whole grain cereals and whole grain breads. A new wonder food is sweet potatoes and yams, which are high in potassium, fiber and vitamin A.
Also, Ms. Walker advises people not to peel their fruits and vegetables.

“Not only does peeling them cause vitamin loss – as many vitamins are in the skin – but there also is a significant loss of fiber,” she said.

Making small steps toward a healthy diet is what counts, she said.
Anyone interested in learning more about nutrition are encouraged to attend a basic nutrition class, 2 p.m. March 24 at the Ramstein HAWC, or a children’s eating seminar – for ages 6 to 12 – 3 p.m. March 24 at the Ramstein Youth Center. Call the HAWC at 480-4292 for details.