Tag Archives: weight-loss

CDC Trustworthy Source for Nutritious Diet

Posted on by

Information Resources

By Evelyn Cunico, MA, MS/LIS
Health Information Specialist
Posted January 31, 2024

CDC Nutrition Tips

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) leads news with recommendations related to the coronavirus (COVID-19). The CDC is also a trustworthy source for nutritious diet plans.

The CDC website entitled, Healthy Eating for a Healthy Weight is an online source that presents understandable tips about how healthy eating is all about balance. For example, you can enjoy your favorite foods, even if they are high in calories.

Eat Fewer Comfort Foods

  • Eat comfort foods less often. If you are tempted to eat these foods every day, cut back to once a week or once a month.
  • Eat smaller amounts. If your favorite high-calorie food is a chocolate bar, eat a smaller size or only half a bar.
  • Try a lower-calorie version of a favorite food. For example, be creative and prepare food differently. If your macaroni and cheese recipe uses whole milk, butter, and cheese, try making it with non-fat milk, less butter, and low-fat cheese. Add fresh spinach or other leafy greens and tomatoes. Remember that bright colors, such as green and red, make foods more appetizing.

Rethink Your Drink

  • Choose water (bottled, sparkling, or tap water), instead of sugary drinks.
  • Add slices of lime or lemon for taste variety and attractiveness.
  • At the coffee shop, order an unsweetened milk alternative, such as almond, oat, or soy milk.

Carry Your Own Water Bottle

  • Refill your reusable water bottle throughout the day.
  • Place a lemon slice or berries into the water.
  • Add a splash of your favorite fruit juice.

Get Enough Sleep

  • Remind yourself that you may eat more when you do not get enough sleep.
  • Studies show that not getting enough sleep may contribute to obesity.
  • Set your sleep goal at seven to nine hours each night.

Whatever you do, try to become more aware of your diet and sleep habits, and talk with your doctor if you have questions.

For more information, please see the following Selected Information Resources.

Disclaimer: Information in this blog should not replace the medical advice of your doctor. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any disease or other health condition without first consulting with your medical doctor or other healthcare provider.

Selected Information Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Healthy Weight, Nutrition, and Physical Activity. Healthy Eating for a Healthy Weight
Summary Note: Discusses how Calcium-rich Foods, Fruit, Meats, Vegetables, and Comfort Foods (even if they are high in calories, fat, or added sugars) can be prepared in a variety of ways to create nutritious and enjoyable meals and snacks.
(Accessed 2024 January 28)

National Library of Medicine (NLM). MedlinePlus. Nutrition
Summary Note: NLM MedlinePlus home page on Nutrition includes wide variety of links to trustworthy resources, such as the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025, Medical Encyclopedia Healthy Food Trends, Diet Choices, and Healthy Eating on a Budget.
(Accessed 2024 January 28)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Nutrition dot gov
Summary Note: Nutrition dot gov is a USDA-sponsored website that offers trustworthy information on nutrition, healthy eating, physical activity, and food safety for consumers.
(Accessed 2024 January 28)

U.S. Department of Agriculture. USDA MyPlate
Summary Note: MyPlate is the official symbol of the five food groups: Dairy, Fruits, Grains, Protein, and Vegetables. MyPlate dot gov is based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025.
(Accessed 2024 January 30)