International Food Information Council Foundation Offers Resources for Nutrition, Weight Management during National Nutrition Month
Newswise — (Washington, D.C., March 7, 2012) – The International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation is encouraging consumers to “Get Your Plate in Shape to Manage Your Weight” during National Nutrition Month,® and to use their resources (foodinsight.org), along with those of USDA’s MyPlate, as a guide to healthful eating and achieving a healthful lifestyle.
“IFIC Foundation resources can assist consumers in choosing the types of foods that can contribute to meeting their weight management goals,” said Marianne Smith Edge, MS, RD, FADA, Senior Vice President of Nutrition and Food Safety, International Food Information Council Foundation and former President of the American Dietetic Association (Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics). “USDA’s MyPlate can provide a visual cue that can also encourage a healthier, balanced diet by emphasizing consumption of nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy foods as well as appropriate portion sizes.”
Findings from the 2011 International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation Food & Health Survey demonstrate that the majority of Americans are concerned about their weight, and more than two-thirds report either trying to maintain or lose weight. Still, only 12 percent report that they are “extremely satisfied” with their progress.
To help meet their weight management goals, consumers need to pay close attention to calorie balance, the types of foods they choose and the importance of regular physical activity for themselves and their families. The IFIC Foundation offers these helpful tips: • Know your number. Learning how many calories you should consume in a day is a critical first step in managing your weight.• Take charge of your weight. Balancing the calories you eat and drink with the calories you burn through physical activity puts you in control.• Fun stuff counts as exercise! Get active with the family whether it’s soccer in the backyard, dancing to music or taking a walk in your neighborhood.• Base your plate on nutrient-rich foods. Choose foods that offer beneficial nutrients and fewer calories, like fruits and vegetables, whole and enriched grains, lean meats, seafood, beans and nuts, and low-fat and fat-free dairy products.• You are an important role model for your children. Show your family how to savor their favorite higher-calorie foods and beverages by enjoying smaller portions together.
The IFIC Foundation’s numerous website resources help individuals and families lead a healthful life during National Nutrition Month and throughout the year. Please go to http://www.foodinsight.org/healthykids.aspx or http://www.foodinsight.org/kidnetic.aspx for great information for parents, health professionals, educators and kids about food, fitness, fun, feelings, and families.
You can also follow us on Twitter (@IFICMedia & @FoodInsight) and “like us” on Facebook at Food Insight to keep up on our National Nutrition Month activities.
For more information on the IFIC Foundation’s resources or any other questions, please contact the Foundation media team at 202-296-6540, [email protected] or [email protected].
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