Can Still Fight Off Obesity It's never too early or too late to makepos (NAPSA)—It may comeasa surprise to some, but millions of people right here in the United States are suffering from malnutrition. Fortunately, there aresolutions. ‘The Problems A recent study by Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity found many peopleare faced with foodsupply issues. ‘Theylive in “food deserts,’ where access to healthy food options, including fresh fruits and vegetables, is limited because stores are too far away, or “food swamps) wherethere is an overabundance of unhealthy choices, suchasfastfoodrestaurants and conveniencestores. e changesin yourdietorfitness. in the United States. Understanding the nutritional information available on food labels and restaurant menus can empower you to make smarter eating decisions, choosing from a variety of foods and beverages that are higher in nutrient density. Nutrient density is a measure of how muchnutrition yougetpercalorie from the food you eat. Consider two food itemswith the same numberofcalories. One can provide your body with the protein,fiber, healthyfats, vitamins and minerals you need; the other may have only empty calories from sugar andfat with nosignificant nutrients. For exam- ple, when you're looking for a quick snack, reach for a fruit or vegetable or a havingaccess to food? explains Dr. John high-quality protein bar or shake to help Agwunobi, former Assistant Secretary you feelfuller, longer. Doctor’s Opinion “Food security is more than simply of Health for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and current Chief Health and Nutrition Officer at Herbalife. “The definition has evolved overthelast few decades, and the most current definition of food security includesaccessto nutritious food” An Answer Even in food deserts and swamps, healthy eating can be achieved by makinginformeddecisions. Dr. Agwunobi recommendshealth WhatElse Can You Do? Balancednutritionis only partofthe equation for a healthy and happy life. A consistent exercise regimen is also important. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says regular physical activity can reduce the burden of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes and some cancers, and can prevent early death. ‘Another help is to surround yourself with a supportive community oflike- minded people whoalso wantto live a healthy active lifestyle, such as by joinchange people’ outlook on their health ingan Herbalife Nutrition club. This can decisions and behavior. significantly increase the oddsof reach“Let me be clear, education and a ingyour health goals. supportive community do notsolve the In fact, a study published in the problem of food security or the fun- British Journal of Sports Medicine damentallack of investment in under- found that people who regularly walk served communities to bring nutritious in groups have lower blood pressure, education andfinding a community of like-minded individuals who can help food to those communities. However, resting heart rate and total cholesterol, they do help people make healthier along with a reduction in bodyfat and choices when choosing between the Body Mass Index (BMI). ‘processed’ foodsavailable to them,’ he adds. For example, hesays,it’s wise to learn to understand the FDA’s Nutrition Facts label,availableonall packagedfood sold Learn More Many free nutrition and fitness resources, including recipes andfitness videos, are available at www.discover goodnutrition.com.
