March is National Nutrition Month

The start to a healthy body and a great workout is a nutritious plate. This month, try to set a new plate resolution. In order to ensure that your body is getting everything it needs, your plate should have a well-portioned ratio of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and dairy.

When putting your plate together always consider half of it to be reserved for a variety of fruits and vegetables. The mixture of fruits and vegetables should be colorful so that you can maximize the benefits from every bite.

Another quarter of your plate should be a whole grain choice, like whole wheat bread, brown rice or even whole grain pasta. Try to keep the grain portion to only one quarter of your plate and if you are still hungry, your first stop should be additional fruits or vegetables.

Lean protein such as seafood, poultry, eggs, beans and lean meats should fill the final quarter of the plate. Try to ensure that these foods are either grilled or baked and not fried in order to keep your added fats down to a minimum.

Be sure to include some low-fat milk or yogurt on the side to ensure that you get your calcium. Lactose intolerant? Just make sure that the soy, almond, or rice milk you drink has been fortified.

So, try to strengthen your plate. If you need some help, look for your friendly nutritionist either in the rec center or the cafeterias.