March is National Nutrition Month®. During this time, the American Dietetic Association urges you to focus on the facts.

Myth: Fresh fruit and vegetables are healthier than frozen or canned.
Fact: Research shows frozen and canned foods are as nutritious as fresh. In fact, since lycopene is more easily absorbed in the body after being processed, canned tomatoes, corn and carrots are sometimes better nutrition choices.

Myth: Eating carbohydrates causes weight gain.
Fact: Calories cause weight gain. Excess carbohydrates are no more fattening than calories from another source.

Myth: Eating just before bedtime is fattening.
Fact: What you eat, not when, makes the difference. Calories have the same effect on the body no matter when they are consumed.

Myth: Occasionally following a fad diet is a safe way to quickly lose weight.
Fact: Many fad diets are developed by people with no science or health background so some fad diets can be considered harmful.

Maintaining a nutritious diet is key to living a healthy life. If you already suffer from diseases such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, Healthfirst’s Care Management Programs and help get you on the right track. For more information, please call Medical Management at 1-888-394-4327.

For more information on diet and nutrition, visit the American Dietetic Association’s web site at www.eatright.org. Or, for a personalized eating plan, visit www.mypyramid.gov.

Source: www.eatright.org and www.mypyramid.gov.