Eat well to live well

It’s been said that you are what you eat. So, to stay healthy, it’s important to be mindful of what you put on your plate.

If you’re trying to lose weight, it can be tempting to try out a fad diet, but these are often too strict to be realistic for most people — and may even deprive you of certain nutrients.

What does a healthy eating plan look like?

A healthy diet is well-balanced and doesn’t restrict you from ever enjoying your favorite foods. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)* notes that a healthy diet, supported by the government’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2015-2020:

• Emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products
• Includes lean meat, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts
• Is low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium), and added sugars
• Stays within your calorie needs

You can learn more about these recommendations at www.ChooseMyPlate.gov. Remember, it’s always a good idea to talk with your doctor or other health care provider before making any drastic adjustments to your diet.

*The CDC is an independent organization that offers health information that health plan members may find helpful.