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