Healthy Bites Newsletter

By Lisa Franzen-Castle
Extension Nutrition Specialist, PhD, RD
UNL Panhandle Research & Extension Center

May: Beef Month

With thought and planning, beef can make meal times tasty and healthy. Lean beef is a naturally nutrient-rich source of several essential vitamins and minerals. May is beef month. Beef not only helps you meet nutrient needs, but also fuels Nebraska’s economy. Nebraska produces more beef per square mile than any other state.

A three-ounce serving of lean beef is an excellent source of protein, zinc, vitamin B12, selenium and phosphorus; and a good source of niacin, vitamin B6, iron and riboflavin. Check out the following tips and food safety recommendations for making beef a healthy part of your eating plan.

April: Cancer Control Month

There’s no magic bullet to preventing cancer, but research shows up to two-thirds of cancer deaths are caused by smoking, physical inactivity and poor diet. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, accounting for almost one in every four deaths. April is Cancer Control Month, a good time to start reducing your risk by making healthier choices that will lead to a longer, healthier life. Read this month's newsletter for tips for eating healthy, being physically active, and getting screened.

March: National Nutrition Month

If you have a chronic condition, a carefully planned diet can help you manage symptoms and improve health. March is National Nutrition Month®, and The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) (www.eatright.org/Public/) encourages people to develop a healthful eating plan centered on personal health concerns and "Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day." Below are some tips from the Academy on eating healthy and being physically active while keeping personal health concerns in mind.

February: The family that bakes together ...

January: Resolutions that last

December: The gift of food

November: Thanksgiving dinner

October: Healthy snacking with popcorn

September: Get more whole grains

August: Pack healthy school lunches

July: Grilling and food safety

June: Why more fruits and veggies matter

May: Osteoporosis -- 'Silent' disease that affects millions

April: Gear up for Gardening!

March: Colon Cancer Awareness and Prevention

 Questions/Comments about the Healthy Bites Newsletter or this web site? Please contact Dr. Lisa Franzen-Castle, UNL Extension Nutrition Specialist.