Putting Your Best Fork Forward

JAMESTOWN, NEW YORK (March 6, 2017) -- Cornell Cooperative Extension Chautauqua County’s EFNEP program would like to remind Americans that March is National Nutrition Month. The theme for this year is “Put Your Best Fork Forward,” which is to remind people that each bite matters, so make it as healthful as possible! Adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet is one way you can make a positive change. Fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories and high in nutrients essential for proper development. People who add more fruits and vegetables to their diets reduce their risk of developing some chronic diseases like heart disease and stroke. Fruits and vegetables are also packed with fiber, folate, and vitamins and minerals, all vital for proper body maintenance, so make every bite count!

It is recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans that adults get 2-3 cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruits every day. Eating a variety of nutritious, delicious food, can be fun and rewarding. Making homemade pizza for dinner? Try using variety in your selection of vegetables- broccoli, green peppers, spinach, tomatoes, and mushrooms all add a burst of nutrients for your body. Breakfast can be made easy by making an energy filled smoothie with low-fat milk, frozen strawberries, and a banana. Try making healthy eating more convenient by cutting up fruits and vegetables ahead of time and keeping them available in your refrigerator for easy access.

Creating a healthier lifestyle which includes more fruits and vegetables can be made possible by making small changes every day while being more conscious of the food we consume.

The EFNEP Program is one of many programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County (CCE-Chautauqua). CCE-Chautauqua is a subordinate governmental agency with an educational mission that operates under a form of organization and administration approved by Cornell University as agent for the State of New York. It is tax-exempt under section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The association is part of the national cooperative extension system, an educational partnership between County, State, and Federal governments. As New York’s land grant university Cornell administers the system in this state. Each Cornell Cooperative Extension association is an independent employer that is governed by an elected Board of Directors with general oversight from Cornell. All associations work to meet the needs of the counties in which they are located as well as state and national goals. For more information, call 716-664-9502 or visit our website at www.cce.cornell.edu/chautauqua Cornell University Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities.

Last updated March 6, 2017