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Sacramento, CA March 1, 2005 - National Nutrition Month® is the perfect time for families to reevaluate their eating patterns and physical activity. It is also a great time for people to review the recently revised 2005 Dietary Guidelines and look for simple steps they can take to improve their overall health and make sure they eat more nutrient-packed foods such as low-fat and nonfat dairy products, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

While providing a range of nutrients needed for good health, low-fat and nonfat dairy, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are often under represented in individuals' typical diets. There is a tendency by many people to eat out more or rely on processed convenience foods such as prepacked snacks which may result in slighting these nutritious foods. These foods are naturally good tasting, readily available, and can easily be worked into family mealtimes with just a little planning and foresight.

Sponsored by the American Dietetic Association, the National Nutrition Month® Campaign - Get a taste for nutrition! encourages Americans to¹ :

• Be adventurous and expand your horizons. Variety is the "spice of life" in your food choices and is key to good nutrition and health. Choose foods based on flavor, texture and colors that are tasty and healthy. Explore the wide world of nutrition by trying a variety of foods - try Thai, Japanese and Moroccan recipes - these flavorful foods provide a balance of nutrients and put a new spin on the traditional dinner.
• Treat your taste buds. You decide how much how often. Choose foods sensibly by looking at the big picture; it's what you eat over several days, not just one meal or day that counts. So enjoy all your favorite foods, just try eating them in moderate amounts.
• Balance food choices with your lifestyle. Choosing the right balance of foods helps you get the right combination of nutrients. So balance your food choices with your physical activities to achieve and maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle.

No matter what your age, physical activity is also a vital part of living a healthy lifestyle. Be active. Be creative and enjoy the variety of ways to stay active and feel your best. There's no need for expensive equipment or complicated fitness programs. Start by making a list of physical activities that fit into your lifestyle and schedule one every day¹. It can be as easy as taking the stairs at work instead of the elevator.

To make the 2005 Dietary Guidelines actionable in your kitchen, and learn more about simple steps you and your family can take to achieve better nutrition and physical activity, logon to www.mealsmatter.org for quick and easy meal and snack ideas.

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Dairy Council of California develops nutrition education programs that are easy to use and meet the unique needs of students at different grade levels. Making healthy food choices from all food groups and including physical activity are the foundation for life long health and wellness. Our programs are scientifically sound and tested to ensure behavior change. Healthy Eating Made Easier.

Meals Matter - www.mealsmatter.org - is a non-commercial website supported by the Dairy Council of California staffed by registered dietitians and dedicated to promoting healthy food choices for families.

¹American Dietetic Association, National Nutrition Month® Campaign, March 2005

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