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Making wise food choices are essential to long term health. By following the MyPyramid.gov guidelines set forth from the USDA, Hoosiers will ensure a well rounded diet which provides the needed fuel for healthy bodies. In addition, choosing healthy foods improves concentration and prevents disease and illness. MyPyramid.gov guidelines are also available for children and expecting moms!

There are plenty of resources that can help you develop and maintain healthy eating habits. A good diet is a major part of preserving a healthy and fit lifestyle. Check out the dietary guidelines and explore the links below to find out what foods can get you on the track to good health.

 

2200 Calorie Level

  2005 Dietary Guidelines
Grains 3½ cups
Fruits and Vegetables 5 cups
Milk and Milk Products 3 cups
Meat, Fish, and Poultry 6 ounces (about ¾ cup)

The 2,200 calorie level applies to many people including active girls and boys aged 9-13, boys aged 14-18, most men, and active women.

Family Wellness

Being a healthy Hoosier is not always easy, but as a family you can support each other in achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle! Here you will find tips and resources on how you and your family can eat healthier. Sharing meals is an ideal way for the family to spend time together. Whether you're eating at home or eating out on the go, it's important to eat smart.

  • Be consistent. Establish a family meal routine, and set times for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Eat together whenever possible.
  • Turn off the TV during meals, and limit kids' snacking when watching TV.
  • Serve a vegetable or fruit with every meal and at snack time.
  • Involve your children in meal planning and food preparation. They are more likely to eat what they help to make.
  • While shopping and cooking, teach your children about the food groups and the importance of a balanced diet. Throughout the day, choose the types and amounts of foods you need from the five food groups.
  • Teach your children how to read food labels and use the 5%-20% guide to Daily Values to make better food choices. See http://www.fns.usda.gov/tn/Resources/Nibbles/readit_session.pdf for more information. Source: WebMD.COM
  • Prevent Childhood Obesity with tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/obesity/childhood/tips_for_parents.htm
  • Active Children, Active Families: A Helpful Guide for Parents http://www.cdc.gov/youthcampaign/ads-mkt-press/index.htm
  • Dining out? Check out http://calorielab.com/index.html for nutrition facts on over 70,000 foods & over 500 restaurant menus.

Additional Resources

Knowing vital health statistics about yourself and being aware of ways to reduce your health risks can help you create the best diet and nutrition plan for you. Check out these sites for more information:

Are You at Risk? Know Your Cholesterol! Cardiovascular disease is America's #1 killer. The American Heart Association highlights ways to control and manage your risk of heart disease. Your cholesterol level is one factor that you have the ability to control. It begins with making healthier lifestyle choices. Take a few minutes to review the facts about cholesterol.