Media Release

​This press release put out at the request of the Florida Department of Health in Alachua County.

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - March 2017, is National Nutrition Month, and the Florida Department of Health in Alachua (DOH-Alachua) is promoting healthy eating and encouraging Floridians to make informed food choices. National Nutrition Month is sponsored annually by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and this year’s theme is “Put Your Best Fork Forward.” The campaign serves as a reminder that making small changes in food choices can add up over time to big health benefits.

“A balanced diet and regular physical activity are important to achieve and maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic disease,” said Health Department Administrator/Deputy Secretary for County Health Systems Paul D. Myers.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics suggests the following to put the best fork forward: 

• Start the family's day with a nutritious breakfast.
• During each meal, fill half the plate with fruits and vegetables.
• Make at least half of the grains eaten whole grains.
• Talk positively about eating healthy foods around children, and lead by example.

Improving overall well-being also requires a lifelong commitment to healthful lifestyle behaviors, including daily physical activity. Parents can provide opportunities and encourage their children to spend time each day playing fun, physical activities. Families can plan an activity hour twice a week where parents and their children can participate in a physically active game together.

Healthiest Weight Florida is participating in the school districts celebration of National Nutrition Week by providing education about simple things children can do to make their plates more colorful with fruits and vegetables. FDOH-Alachua is providing health information during the Wellness Walks at Fred Cone Park (2841 E. University Avenue, Gainesville) on Monday nights. The Women, Infant, and Children Supplemental Nutrition Program (WIC) will be encouraging the public to lead a healthy lifestyle (by making informed food choices and being physically active) in their clinics. They will also set up booths at the Spring Festival and Vendor’s Fair on March 11th at Sidney Lanier Center School (312 N.W. 16th Avenue, Gainesville) and the Newberry Spring Festival (Downtown Newberry) on March 25th. Residents can also find them at the Children’s Day Event at the Early Learning Coalition of Florida’s Gateway (104 S.W. Main Boulevard, Lake City) on March 31st.

For more information about nutrition and National Nutrition Month, visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics website.

For more information, contact DOH-Alachua Health Communication Specialist John Gonzales at 352-334-7914 or John.Gonzales@flhealth.gov.