West Virginia

Department of Health, Department of Health Facilities, and Department of Human Services

Department of Health
Department of Health Facilities
Department of Human Services

During National Nutrition Month® WIC Encourages Healthy Lifestyles

3/16/2015

During the month of March, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources’ Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program is encouraging residents to return to the basics of healthy eating as part of National Nutrition Month. 
 
This year’s theme, “Bite into a Healthy Lifestyle,” encourages families to adopt a lifestyle focused on informed food choices, daily exercise, and lower calorie consumption, in order to promote their overall health and well-being. 
 
“Studies have shown that the WIC Program has played a significant role in improving birth outcomes and containing health care costs,” said Bureau for Public Health Commissioner and State Health Office Dr. Rahul Gupta.  “WIC has resulted in longer pregnancies, fewer premature births and infant deaths, a greater likelihood of receiving prenatal care.” 
 
The WIC Program serves approximately 45,000 women, infants and children as part of its mission to optimize health outcomes through food and nutrition education.
 
“There can be a misperception that eating healthfully means giving up your favorite foods,” said Denise Ferris, registered dietitian and WV WIC Program Nutrition Consultant.  “The ‘Bite into a Healthy Lifestyle’ theme is a reminder that maintaining good health is not about a specific food, meal or time of year, rather, a life-long balance of healthy behaviors that leaves plenty of time for the foods and activities we love.” 
 
Throughout the year, the WIC Program strives to communicate healthy eating messages that emphasize a balance of food and beverages to provide the body what it needs.  The total diet or overall pattern of food eaten is the most important focus of healthy eating.  Most favorite foods can fit within this pattern if eaten in moderation with appropriate portion size and physical activity.
 
For more information, contact WIC at 304-558-0030, or visit http://ons.wvdhhr.org.  WIC is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

Contact Information

Toby D. Wagoner, Public Information Officer, Bureau for Public Health, Telephone: (304) 356-4042 or email:Toby.D.Wagoner@wv.gov
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