Eating healthy can help people reduce the risk of chronic illnesses and improve their overall health. Eating unhealthy foods, those high in saturated fat, sugar and salt, can put people at risk for obesity, heart disease, diabetes and other health problems. Cherie Simpson, a nutritionist and dietitian with the UA Student Health Center and Pharmacy, provides these guidelines for healthy eating: include lean protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables in your meals, and make half your plate fruits and vegetables; eat healthy snacks; drink more water; and exercise. Eating healthy also includes cooking more, eating out less, planning meals and focusing on nutritious foods. For help in figuring out a plan for healthy eating, Simpson suggests making an appointment with a nutritionist or dietitian.
(Source: The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics)
