March is National Nutrition Month! From Dr. Michael Long

You may remember our post from a few weeks ago about February being National Children's Dental Health Month. Well, we're now well into March, and March happens to be National Nutrition Month. Every March, Dr. Michael Long, as well as thousands of dentists take time to celebrate this occasion. This March, Dr. Long and our team want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health.

Dr. Long and team know small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your diet beginning this March:

• Focus on fruits and veggies: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Look locally: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods here in Fresno.

• Make calories count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• Test your taste buds: Expand your horizons. Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new health favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

• Trick yourself with treats: If you have a sweet tooth, enjoy some fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you care for a snack in the afternoon, have some trail mix or nuts.

We hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions and have a great week!