Health & Nutrition: Nutrition Note: All Foods Can Fit, Just Not All the Time

A timely food issue is the claim that cookies are not healthy. But some experts say all foods can fit into a healthful diet. The phrase "all foods can fit" is from the American Dietetic Association position paper, "Total Diet Approach to Communicating Food and Nutrition Information." But there is more to the catchy statement than meets the eye. The paper does not go on to say "all foods can fit all the time." Instead, it says, "If consumed in moderation with appropriate portion size and combined with regular physical activity, all foods can fit into a healthful diet." Balanced, moderate eating means every meal consists of a serving from each of the following groups: Protein, Grain (1-3 servings per meal depending on size, age and activity level), Fruit, Vegetables and Dairy. One must keep in mind the number of servings varies depending on the age, size, gender and activity level of the individual. A "serving" of cookies would count as a grain and a fat. Healthful nutrition means balance, variety and moderation. Eating an entire box of cookies in one sitting does not "fit." But two cookies with a glass of milk make a well-balanced snack. It's moderation. So, when you're truly hungry, enjoy one or two cookies as part of a healthful snack or meal and if you want a cookie have a cookie. Source: http://www.journalstar.com