Nutrition

Welcome!

Have you heard the saying, “You are what you eat”?

The evidence is clear – the types of food you eat and the amount you eat can have a significant impact on your overall health and how long you live.

An unhealthy diet can increase your risk of developing many health problems including obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, bone loss and some kinds of cancer.

Did you know…?

• Sixty three percent of adults in Albany County are overweight or obese. Source: NYSDOH
• Only 24 percent of adults in Albany County report eating the recommended 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Source: NYSDOH
• Health problems usually seen in adults are being seen more commonly in overweight and obese children and young adults.
• Leading experts have concluded that if everyone ate a healthy diet, was physically active every day and maintained a healthy weight, approximately 1/3 of the most common cancers could be prevented. Source: American Institute of Cancer Research
• When you drink one 20 ounce bottle of soda you are drinking 16 teaspoons of sugar!

What you can do to improve your diet:

• Follow the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans
• Start by making small changes in your diet
• Begin today!

Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010: 

These guidelines provide advice for making smart food choices that promote good health, a healthy weight and help prevent chronic disease.

Some SIMPLE TIPS to improve your diet recommended in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans [PDF*]:

BALANCE YOUR CALORIES

• Enjoy your food, but eat less.
• Avoid oversized portions.

FOODS TO INCREASE

• Add more plant-based foods to your diet.
• Make half your plate fruits and vegetables.
• Make at least half your grains whole grains.
• Switch to fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk.

FOODS TO REDUCE

• Compare sodium in foods like soup, bread, and frozen meals – and choose the foods with lower numbers.
• Drink water instead of sugary drinks.

MORE DETAILED INFORMATION to improve your diet »

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES to help you develop a healthy eating pattern »