A healthy lifestyle starts with healthy eating. Healthy eating is possible when you know what foods your body needs, those foods are accessible, and you choose to make healthy foods a part of your daily diet.

You can create and maintain a healthy eating pattern by making small, manageable changes. Check out EatRight.org or the 2015 Dietary Guidelines published by the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services and of Agriculture to see if you’re on track:  

Knowing how to properly read nutrition labels will help you make better decisions about what foods and beverages you choose to put into your body.

Serving Size

The serving size tells you how many calories and nutrients you will consume within a measured amount. The more servings you consume, the greater the calories and nutrients you intake.

Calories

Calories are energy we get from food. Your body needs this energy to function properly, but eating too many calories per day is linked to obesity. As a general, per-serving guideline:

• 40 calories is low
• 100 calories is moderate
• 400 calories or more is high

Fat, Cholesterol, Sodium

Most American consume enough or too much fat, cholesterol, and sodium. Eating too much of these nutrients may increase your risk of chronic disease, some cancers, or high blood pressure. Limit your intake of saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol as much as possible.

Dietary Fiber, Vitamins, and Minerals

Most Americans don't get enough dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron in their diets. Eating adequate amounts of these nutrients can help improve heart health, digestion, and immunity. 

Farmers markets connect communities with fresh, local products like seasonal fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and meat and provide areas known as food deserts with access to affordable food. Find a market near you:

*Accepts SNAP/EBT

One way you can increase access to healthy foods in underserved populations is by donating to your local food pantry or food bank. The following is a list of healthy food items you can donate today:

Fruits and Vegetables

• Fresh produce
• Low-sodium or water packed canned vegetables
• Canned fruits in 100% juice
• 100% fruit and vegetable juices
• Dried fruits and vegetables with no added sugar 

Proteins

• Low-sodium or water packed canned meats and seafood
• Dried beans, peas, and lentils
• Low-sodium canned beans and peas

Dairy and Dairy Substitutes

Shelf-stable milk or non-dairy alternatives such as soy and almond milk

100% Whole Grains

• Whole-wheat pasta, barley, brown rice, and wild rice
• Whole-grain cereal and rolled oats with at least 3g of fiber

Healthy Fats

• Low-sodium nuts
• Low-sodium nut butter

Interested in hosting a food drive? Contact healthpromotion@slco.org for tips and ideas.