March is on a Nutrition Mission

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Dr. James D. Huysman

Health /

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It’s National Nutrition Month! What and how we eat have a lot to do with our health and wellbeing.

Common sense tells us that if we don’t weed, feed and water a garden that it will die. It reminds us that if we don’t put gas in the car, change the oil and filters, maintain good battery life, and make sure the tire pressure is right that we could get stranded on the side of the road. We know that the diets of our loved ones with conditions like, diabetes, cancer, heart and kidney problems, food allergies, etc. need and get special attention, because we make sure of that every day.

So why is it that our common sense goes out the window when it comes to taking care of ourselves? A Grabbing a Red Bull and a bagel or a Pop Tart and coffee is not nutrition. A steady diet of pizza, mac ‘n’ cheese, and Kentucky Fired will not providing us with all the nutrients we need to be able to function at an optimum level.

Many of us have dietary needs and issues too. We need the right fuel, water, and fresh air to keep going as much, if not more than those for whom we care.   

Be honest…When was the last time you really sat down and took the time to enjoy a meal?

‘Breaking bread’ is one of the special things we do with our friends and families. We could make it a special thing we do for ourselves too. Even if only for a half an hour, it’s still downtime and should be relished and taken to your advantage.

Although many families, do not have the luxury of gathering around the dinner table to talk about the day and spend quality time with each other, there is still something to be said for sharing a meal and being aware of what and how you eat.

Please consider the following when you’re planning, preparing, or having your next meal:

  • Don’t just grab something to put in your stomach
  • CHEW your food
  • TASTE the food
  • Include fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Snack wisely!

Eating well is an important part of any self-care plan. So, Take Your Oxygen, Air, Food, and Water First! You’re worth it.

Categories: Health
About The Author
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James D “Dr. Jamie” Huysman, PsyD, LCSW is well-known for his work fiercely advocating on behalf of family and professional caregivers. From running a national caregiver support foundation, contributing to the AARP Foundation/NASW’s collective “New Guidelines for Caregivers of Older Adults” and co-authoring “Take Your Oxygen First”, to his expert videos on Caregiver Connections for UHC TV, he is a champion of behavioral health and a patient-centered medical culture that is prepared to meet the needs of those they serve.  A popular speaker, he works as VP of Provider Relations and Government Affairs for WellMed Medical Management.

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