It’s National Nutrition Month! The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics shares information each year to help people eat more healthy and be more physically active. This year they are encouraging you to Personalize Your Plate. Nutrition is not one-size-fits all. Different people have different needs, body types, goals, tastes, and backgrounds. When you take the time to personalize your plate, you are doing the best you can for YOU!
Let’s put your nutrition knowledge to the test. Check out the questions below. Try to answer them before you move on to read the answer. You may be smarter than you think!
FACT OR FICTION
Q: Added sugars and naturally occurring sugars are the same.
- Answer: FICTION – Sources of naturally occurring sugars, such as fruit and milk, provide important nutrients, like vitamins and minerals. Sugars that are added to foods and beverages often contribute calories, but lack nutrients that are needed for good health.
- Click here to learn more about added sugars.
Q: Foods that contain carbohydrates should be avoided.
- Answer: FICTION – Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy. Many nutritious foods are sources of carbohydrates, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods provide vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, which can positively affect our health.
- Click here to read about smart carb choices.
Q: All types of dietary fat are the same.
- Answer: FICTION – Healthier types of fat come from plant-based sources, such as vegetable oils and nuts. Fish, like salmon, also contain hearth healthy forms of fat. Saturated fats and trans fats may increase the risk of heart disease, so it is recommended that these types of fat be limited. You can do this by choosing lean cuts of meat, skinless poultry and low-fat or fat-free dairy products and by reviewing the Nutrition Facts Label.
- Click here to read Dietary Fat – Love, Limit, or Lose.
Q: Frozen and canned fruits and vegetables can be nutritious choices.
- Answer: FACT – Frozen and canned fruits and vegetables can be just as nutritious as fresh produce. Look for products with no added sugars and ones that are lower in sodium.
- Click here to read about the benefits of canned fruits and vegetables.
Q: Some processed foods can be healthy?
- Answer: FACT – There are different types of processed foods – some are only minimally processed, such as baby carrots or bagged spinach. Others are highly processed, like pre-made meals, frozen side dishes, and other convenience-type foods. Compare labels to find healthier options when purchasing these types of foods.
- Click here to read more about processed foods.
Now that you’ve put your nutrition knowledge to the test, how do you use it to personalize your plate? A good place to begin is with MyPlate. Click here to learn how to make every bite count, and get personalized resources.
Yummy, nutritious recipes make it easier to eat healthy. Here’s a great one to add to your menu.
I was skeptical about cauliflower in the recipe, and thought about leaving it out. Cauliflower and cheeseburger didn’t seem like a good combo. However, once I tasted the finished product, I realized it was the perfect addition. The cauliflower added extra flavor making the soup delicious. Give it a try. Enjoy!
If you’d like to test your nutrition knowledge even further, take the full National Nutrition Month 2021 quiz.
