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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 7, 2007

March is National Nutrition Month
Department of Aging Encourages Older Ohioans and Caregivers to Be Fad Free

COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Aging urges all older Ohioans, as well as family members who may be caring for an aging loved one, to make informed food choices and develop sound physical activity habits during National Nutrition Month this March. This year's theme, "Be 100 Percent Fad Free," recognizes that Ohioans are exposed to many different, and often conflicting, messages about nutrition and health.

"It is difficult to watch television today without seeing some new diet, pill, cream or magic potion that is supposed to give you a longer life, a trimmer waist, better memory and more," said Barbara E. Riley, Director of the Ohio Department of Aging. "These fads are often only short-term solutions. In the long term, a little common sense and advice from the right sources can put the fads to rest."

Many health and nutrition fads make unreasonable or exaggerated claims that eating (or not eating) specific foods, nutrient supplements or combinations of foods may cure disease or offer quick weight loss. According to the American Dietetic Association, however, the most effective long-term way to achieve a healthful lifestyle is to avoid fads and make smart choices. Among their suggestions:

• " Get back to basics and use the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and MyPyramid (www.mypyramid.gov) as your guide to healthy eating.
• " You don't need to totally avoid certain foods to get healthier. No matter what you choose to eat, consume it in moderation and appropriate portions.
• " Find your balance between food and physical activity. Regular physical activity helps control body weight, promotes a feeling of well-being and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

A licensed, registered dietitian can communicate current and emerging science-based nutrition information and will help you develop a diet plan that meets your needs. To find a dietitian near you, visit www.eatright.org or contact your local hospital for a referral. Your Area Agency on Aging also may be able to refer you to a dietitian or to nutrition programs and services (e.g., home-delivered meals, nutrition counseling) operated by senior centers and other organizations. Call 1-866-243-5678 to be connected to the agency serving your community.

About ODA

The Ohio Department of Aging serves and represents two million Ohioans age 60 and older. The Department advocates for the needs of all older citizens, with an emphasis on improving the quality of life for older Ohioans, helping them live active, healthy and independent lives, and promoting positive attitudes toward aging and older people. The Department provides services to older Ohioans through 12 area agencies on aging, home- and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman and the Golden Buckeye Card. For more information, visit www.goldenbuckeye.com.