Eating Healthy Means Dairy Has a Place at the Table

Orlando, FL (PRWEB) March 05, 2014

As health and nutrition debates persist nationwide, questions of what to eat and how much to eat still linger in the minds of many. March is National Nutrition Month, providing a great opportunity to highlight the importance of making good food choices and the role dairy foods play in maintaining a healthy diet.

When it comes to achieving a desired level of wellness, reducing caloric intake, monitoring portion sizes and exercising regularly are great ways to improve one’s overall health. A nutrient-rich diet consisting of foods like fruits, vegetables, proteins, whole grains and dairy is recommended.

“Deciding which foods to eat is among the most important decisions we make on a daily basis,” says Alyssa Greenstein, registered dietitian with Florida Dairy Farmers. “Opting for foods that have high nutritional value gives the body the fuel it needs to conquer the day and run at peak efficiency.”

Dairy foods offer a unique combination nine key vitamins and nutrients – including high quality protein – that can help build stronger bones, lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of diabetes. Research also suggests that enjoying three servings of milk, cheese or yogurt each day as part of a balanced diet can help maintain a healthy weight.

Here are some tips to help incorporate more nutrient-rich foods into your regular eating regimen and promote healthy living.

•     Snack on fruits and veggies. Fruits and veggies are great for snacking, especially when you are on-the-go. They are healthy and can typically hold up well over several days, if needed. Eating vegetables and fruits rich in potassium as part of a healthy diet may lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of developing kidney stones and help to decrease bone loss.
•     Opt for whole grains. Whole grains are great sources of fiber, which may help reduce blood cholesterol levels. Consider eating whole grains instead of refined products. Swap out white bread for whole-grain bread, and have brown rice in place of white rice.
•     Vary your dairy. Dairy foods, including milk, cheese and yogurt, are nutritious and versatile, allowing them to be incorporated into meals in many ways. They are also packed with protein, which can deliver numerous health benefits. In fact, an 8-ounce glass of milk provides eight grams of high quality protein, which is more than a large egg.

For more information about Florida Dairy Farmers or to learn more about nutrient-rich foods and ways to incorporate them into your diet, visit http://www.floridamilk.com.

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About Florida Dairy Farmers
Florida Dairy Farmers is Florida’s milk promotion group, working to educate people on the dairy farming industry and the nutrient-rich foods it provides. FDF represents more than 130 dairy farming families throughout the state. For more information, call 407-647-8899 or visit http://www.floridamilk.com.

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