GOOD NUTRITION CAN BE AS EASY AS 1, 2, 3
By Amy Moss, Clinical Dietitian, MCG Health System

March 1, 2002

Augusta, Ga. -- March is National Nutrition Month. Just in time as your New Year's resolve starts to fade, here are a few tips to keep in mind about nutrition and healthy eating:

1. Almost everything is okay in moderation. How can anyone say that your favorite dessert, especially when shared with people you enjoy, is bad for you? It is when your favorite dessert becomes a daily (or possibly twice a day) treat that a problem is created. Once in a while the indulgence is good for the soul.
2. Watch how much you have at meals and snacks. This is where determination and self-control have to play their part. Did you know that one cup of cereal is considered one serving? Go measure that out into a bowl. How many servings do you usually have? If you are like a majority of Americans, you probably need to cut back.
3. Eat a variety of foods. Fruits, vegetables, dairy, fat, and (gasp) even those "evil" carbohydrates each play a valuable role in a healthy diet. Eating a variety of foods from all food groups in appropriate amounts helps to ensure a balanced intake of nutrients.

Overall well being includes mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. Nutrition plays an important role in physical health. The American Dietetic Association sponsors National Nutrition Month ä every March.

For additional information on nutrition or National Nutrition Month, visit the ADA Web site at www.eatright.org or call the ADA at 1-800-366-1655 to find a registered dietitian near you. MCG Health System has outpatient nutrition services available by physician referral. If you have a medical problem that may be assisted by dietary counseling, ask your doctor if he would refer you for a consultation.

MCG HealthCare is the health system of the Medical College of Georgia and is comprised of MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty of the School of Medicine and the members of the Physicians Practice Group. MCG Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCG Hospitals and Clinics, Children's Medical Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center and related clinical facilities and services. MCG Health, Inc. was formed to support the research and education mission of the Medical College of Georgia and to build the economic growth of the CSRA, the state of Georgia and the Southeast by offering the highest level of primary and specialty health care.

For more information, contact:
Steven Padgett
Media Relations Manager
MCG Health, Inc.
(706) 721-9566