Fresh vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet. Image via Wikipedia
By Julie Murphree, Arizona Farm Bureau
In speaking with nutritionists and Arizona farm families about food choices, many suggested that we approach our food choices more holistically. But what does that mean? Keep it simple.
Healthy Food Choices
To eat a healthy diet, certain basics of nutrition must be met daily. Begin by simplifying your eating habits. “Stick to the basics,” says Sharla Mortimer, Yavapai County rancher and Chair of the Arizona Farm Bureau’s Women’s Leadership Committee.
Mother of four, Mortimer further states that, “Fruits and vegetables along with whole grains, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, fish, beans, eggs and nuts are an important part of a healthy diet. Buying fresh produce when it’s in season and costs less, while buying frozen fruits and vegetables when they’re not in season, is a smart way to stretch that dollar too.”
If a few extra pounds is something you’re struggling with, reevaluate the portion sizes you eat. Start serving yourself smaller portions. Sometimes the discipline of reducing portion sizes makes all the difference on those three to five pounds you want to shed.
Nutritionists even suggest we chew our food slowly, and eat with others. Avoid eating out too much and in front of the television.
Plus, think of exercise as one of the food groups we need to meet. Step outside to walk or run daily.
The Specifics
Arizona Farm Bureau’s Women’s Leadership Committee chats about health and eating from the various food groups. The group of women is especially keen on this as February hosts Arizona Farm Bureau’s annual Food Check Out Week. The women suggest eating plenty of whole grains daily, such as barley, brown rice or millet. Fresh fruits and vegetables are a necessary part of a healthy diet.
Try eating a variety of color with your vegetables, and be sure to eat plenty of dark leafy greens, which are full of nutrients. Be sure to serve yourself lean proteins, such as beef, pork, fish, legumes or skinless chicken breasts.
Key Considerations
Nutritionists will suggest that we slowly start to make shifts in our lifestyle and routines. Do not expect results overnight and do not push yourself. Monitor your weight loss weekly. No more than a few pounds should be shed every week.
Stay patient, and you will see results. Also, avoid fatty, processed or refined sugars, along with unhealthy carbohydrates, such as white bread.
Arizona Farm Bureau’s Women’s Leadership Committee believes that our basic food groups, eaten regularly and in appropriate amounts will keep us healthy. Celebrating Food Check Out Week In February will help us celebrate America’s abundance!
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- Arizona Farm Bureau Announces Food Check Out Week
- What New Dietary Guidelines Are Telling Us to Do For Better Health
- How to Make Permanent Positive Changes in Your Diet
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