The Facts...
Good nutrition has a positive effect on mental and physical well-being. Healthy eating can help Oklahomans live stronger and healthier lives.  It can also help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, some cancers, stroke and diabetes.  

The Challenges...
Unhealthy habits formed during childhood

Limited access to fresh and affordable produce

Increased portion sizes

Busy lifestyle leaving less time for family meals

The Solutions...
Remember, healthy eating begins at birth.  Breast milk is the ideal food for babies and breastfeeding is beneficial for mothers, too. 

Eating better means making healthy choices, such as choosing nutrient rich foods, reducing unhealthy fat and excess calories, monitoring salt and sugar intake, and drinking more water.  Small changes can make a big difference in your health.  Try making changes one step at a time.  Try one of the following tips for one week and add another one the next week.  With time and patience, you can improve your current eating habits or make your good eating habits even better!

• Enjoy your food, but eat less
• Avoid oversized portions
• Make half your plate fruits and vegetables
• Drink water instead of sugary drinks
• Consume more low-fat (1%) and fat-free dairy products like yogurt, cheese and milk
• Compare sodium in foods like soup, bread, and frozen meals-and choose the foods with lower numbers

More information and resources on eating better can be found 

at

choosemyplate.gov and fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org.