News You Can Use
Consider 'eating green' for a New Year's resolution
University Relations
News Bureau (662) 325-3442
Contact: Kenneth Billings
December 16, 2008
STARKVILLE, Miss.-As 2009 approaches, many Americans are planning their New Year's resolutions.
For too many in an overweight United States, two connected lifestyle challenges likely top the list: dieting and healthier eating.
With virtually thousands of diet plans now available, nutrition authority Sylvia H. Byrd of Mississippi State University suggests the weight-conscious consider "going green" with their 2009 eating habits.
"For good health, Americans should eat more fruits and vegetables, perhaps five-to-nine servings per day," the associate professor adds. "Currently, less than a third of adults and a fourth of children consume the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables."
Byrd provides some quick reminders:
- As leading sources of several essential nutrients, fruits and vegetables are associated with a decreased risk of chronic diseases;
- For a healthier, more varied mix of fruits and vegetables, plant heirloom seeds in the spring or purchase locally grown items available at farmer's markets; and
- Consider gardening as a hobby offering multiple benefits.
"Gardening can be one of the simple pleasures in life," Byrd observes. "In addition to having immediate access to fresh fruits and vegetables, it provides an opportunity for physical activity and family involvement."
Information on heirloom fruits and vegetables may be obtained at http://www.seedsavers.org/.