Live Long, Live Healthy by Eating Right

Healthy eating habits and nutrition have been an ongoing concern for many individuals over the years. "What do I eat?" and "How many servings can I eat?" are just a few of the questions that constantly plague our minds every time the subjects of food and health are mentioned together. We live in a time when everybody has an answer, and we are constantly bombarded with guidelines and gimmicks that guarantee a healthy lifestyle. Through all of the muck and mire, an astounding 54 percent of the American public is either obese or overweight.

The Food and Nutrition Information Center (FNIC), conducted a survey showing that a healthy diet would prevent $71 billion in medical costs, lost productivity, and the cost of premature deaths associated with these conditions. The importance of living a healthy lifestyle is often overlooked or taken for granted for various reasons. Many people are not motivated to take a nutritional stand until something bad occurs.

Osteopathic physicians encourage their patients to take an active role with their health, and eating a balanced meal is one way to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

As far as health, food, and nutrition are concerned, where does the American public go wrong? The FNIC conducted a national report concerning consumer attitudes about nutrition few year ago. The studies show that 86 percent of the American public are concerned about the nutritional content of food, but only 60 percent of the American public actually change their eating habits due to nutrition. Of the American public that is concerned with their health, 26 percent do absolutely nothing about their concerns. As far as their eating habits, people are willing to sacrifice long-term health for short-term indulgences.

On the journey to a healthy lifestyle, it seems as though the answer to a lot of our health questions can be found in a healthy diet. In order to live our lives to the fullest, we have to develop nutritional values because eating healthy will increase the quality and years of healthy living.

What do I Eat?

• Eating a variety of foods, preferably plenty of fruits, vegetables, and grain products.
• A diet low in fat and cholesterol as well as a moderate intake of sugars and sodium.
• The last and most important recommendation is to balance the food eaten with physical activity.

How Many Servings Can I Eat?

People are advised to be sensible, enjoy all foods but just not to overdo it. People should not overindulge, especially in fatty foods and foods high in cholesterol.

In 1992 the USDA put forth a food guide pyramid advising people of recommended food intake per day. The food pyramid sections off five specific food categories:

• Dairy products (2-4 servings per day)
• Meat, poultry, eggs, and fish products (2-3 servings per day)
• Vegetable (3-5 servings per day)
• Fruits (3 servings per day)
• Rice, bread, and pasta products (6-11 servings per day).

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• Diet & Nutrition