Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

Health Ministry

March 2006

Step Up to Nutrition and Health

This year, the American Dietetic Association’s slogan for National Nutrition Month is STEP UP TO NUTRITION & HEALTH. The purpose of this campaign is to encourage Americans to make informed food choices and develop sound eating and physical activity habits.

What has happened since National Nutrition Month of 2005? The beginning of 2006 marked the use of new food labels that are marking products at our local grocery stores. Information explaining the new labeling can be found at the ADA website cited below. While food labeling and the food pyramid have changed their looks, one important fact remains the same: Nutrition not only refers to the foods that we choose to eat, but in a broader sense, refers to lifestyle choices that affect our health.

It is estimated that 122 million adults in the U.S. have a weight problem. Obesity has become an epidemic. Unfortunately, with our prosperity, a lot of activity has left our daily routine. Past generations had strenuous activity as an integral part of their day (members of farming communities, etc.) Today’s society finds itself spending more time sedentary in a vehicle during a long commute or in an office glued behind a desk. With less time available in a busy society, exercise often falls by the wayside. Also, with less time available and more money in our pockets, more and more family food dollars are spent outside the home (often on fast food – while tasty, not always the best choice).

As we think about good nutrition, lifestyle changes come to mind. Perhaps examining the habits surrounding our food consumption, investigating better food choices, and integrating activity back into our routines deserves more of our attention. There are any number of diet plans available on the market that promise results by restricting food groups, etc. Remember that studies have shown that approximately 90% of dieters (those using restrictive diet plans) gain back the weight they lost within a 2-year period of time. Many health professionals advise viewing “diet” as a 4-letter word, one that you would never dare to utter! As you “step up to nutrition and health” during 2006 - THINK LIFESTYLE: FOOD CHOICES & EXERCISE!

There are many organizations to consult for helpful/healthful information during National Nutrition Month: www.eatright.org  (American Dietetic Association) www.healthierus.gov/dietaryguidelines  www.deliciousdecisions.org (American Heart Association)

Additional information can also be found on the Health Ministry Bulletin Board including the National Nutrition Month Quiz and guides to the new nutrition labeling!

Many thanks to Marian Mathur, Good Shepherd member and retired nutritionist, who assisted the Health Ministry in compiling information for this month’s article and bulletin board!

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