With my hectic schedule, I often eat lunch on the go, and it is usually unhealthy.

I took action and made a small but achievable change.

For lunch, I am reducing my intake of greasy fast foods and choosing healthier lunch options with water only as my beverage.

I have been doing very well with this goal, and I even feel more energized.

So I ask, are you ready to make a change with me? March is National Nutrition Month and this year’s theme is Bite into a Healthier Lifestyle.

Throughout the month of March and beyond, try to make a change by choosing healthier food choices and focusing on moderation combined with physical activity.

A few ways you can Bite into a Healthier Lifestyle include picking fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat dairy more often.

Eating healthier can also taste good.

Try new recipes with your family and make meal time fun.

I also invite you to participate in the many community-based programs and services aimed at helping you to Bite into a Healthier Lifestyle.

• HCPHS provides nutrition services to child health, maternity, and chronic disease patients.

Our registered dietitian is available for individual consultations by physician referral, in addition, to community outreach.

• The Roanoke Valley Community Health Initiative is improving health by putting resources for physical activity and recreation at people’s fingertips with the release of the Places to Explore, Move, and Play map.

(A copy of the map may be downloaded as a PDF at the end of this column or follow this link)

The map highlights community organizations, pools, farmers markets, parks, trails, senior centers, playgrounds and more across Halifax County.

• Got WIC? Good nutrition in pregnancy and early childhood can make a difference and WIC is here for your family.

WIC provides nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and vouchers for healthy foods to pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to the age of 5.

To learn more about WIC in Halifax County or to see if you qualify call (252) 535-4845.

Your child has you, and you have WIC.

WIC is an equal opportunity provider.

• Want to save money at the store? Want to buy healthy foods to feed your family? Need some tasty and healthy recipes for your family?

If you said yes, come join HCPHS for a free Cooking Matters at the Store for Adults guided grocery store tour.

To register, contact Abi Hicks, Health Educator at 252-583-5021 ext. 238 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. There are so many free programs and services available in the Roanoke Valley to help you live a healthier lifestyle.

However, that decision is solely up to you.

Are you ready for a permanent change? Small Changes equal Sustainable Changes.

Get your family and friends involved and let’s live healthier together because public health matters.

For more information about how public health is working for you, contact HCPHS Health Department at 252-583-5021.

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