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A few years ago I made the decision to stop drinking soda. I had finished reading the book, Soda Politics by Marion Nestle and was upset when I found out that most of the advertisement for soda was targeted in communities of color. Research has shown that sugary drinks are not good for you and is one of the contributors to the obesity epidemic we have in the United States and yet in communities of color where diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity are the highest, sugary beverages like soda are being marketed. It does not make sense. Why are those companies not advertising fruits and vegetables? Why are the companies not advertising snacks like nuts and seeds? Why do those companies not talk about the benefits of water?

March is National Nutrition Month. It is an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During this month everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits. This year’s theme is ‘Personalize Your Plate’. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition and health. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends that you see a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) who can tailor a healthful eating plan that is as special as you are. You can check and see if this is a covered benefit under your insurance plan and take advantage of seeing an RDN especially if you have a chronic disease.

The American College of Lifestyle Medicine suggests the following:

• Eat plenty of vegetables, mushrooms, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts and seeds.
• Beverage of choice – Water
• Limit and/or avoid sugary drinks like soda, juice cocktails, coffee and energy drinks, processed meats like sausage, bacon, salami, bologna, deli meat, processed snacks like crackers, chips, pretzels, cakes, pasties, sweets, dairy (especially high-fat types with added salt and sugar), red meats, poultry and eggs.

Please click here for information on how to start eating healthy by making every bite count.