Getting to Good Health
By Starr H. Horne, MS, RD, LD
Clinical Nutrition Manager, MCG Health System

Augusta, Ga. -- Many people get caught up in measuring their health by a number on a scale. But good health actually starts with developing a sensible eating plan combined with physical activity.

National Nutrition Month ® is a campaign sponsored by the American Dietetic Association during the month of March. It's a great time for people to focus on sound eating habits and exercise.

The following are some recommendations based on American Dietetic Association guidelines:

• Be flexible. Some people like spinach; others hate it. So don't lock yourself into an eating plan that doesn't fit what you like to eat.
• Good food, bad food. There is no such thing as good or bad food. Just remember that moderation is an important aspect of good nutrition. Eating a lot of one food-whether it's chocolate or chicken-isn't healthy. In addition, one dessert or one big, carbohydrate-laden meal isn't the end of the world; remember to look at the big picture of your dining habits and adjust your dining accordingly.
• Variety is the spice of life. Eating a wide variety of foods not only promotes optimal nutrition but also allows you to enjoy the pleasurable aspects of eating as you explore new tastes.
• Add exercise. Nutrition is only one piece of the puzzle. Regular exercise is necessary to complete the picture. But exercise doesn't have to mean an expensive gym membership or buying a bunch of equipment. Find activities that you enjoy doing, like walking, swimming, biking or tennis. Even simply deciding to walk that extra block or climb those stairs can help. The important thing is adding that daily physical activity to your life.
• Keep your eyes on the goal. Don't stress yourself out by focusing on an ideal weight as the ultimate goal. Instead, be determined to meet your personal health hurdles and overcome them. For example, decide that you want to be able to climb a flight of stairs without losing your breath, or plan to try out a new vegetable every night.
  With a little effort and some creativity, you'll soon develop a personalized plan that will help you reach the ultimate goal-good health.

MCG Health System is composed of MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty of the Medical College of Georgia 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.