By Ellen Colasuonno, MS RDN/ Nutrition & Wellness Educator
August is recognized as National Wellness Month, a time to focus on healthy habits that support our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. But these days, the word “wellness” can feel a little overwhelming. Between social media, television, podcasts, advertisements, and online influencers, we are constantly hearing new messages about what we should or should not be eating.
One day a food is considered healthy, and the next day it is labeled as harmful. Carbohydrates, dairy products, seed oils, fruit, gluten, and even certain vegetables have all been criticized online at one point or another. With so much conflicting information, it can become difficult to know what is actually true.
As a Registered Dietitian, one thing I encourage people to remember is this: nutrition should not feel frightening. While there is certainly nuance and individual health needs varying from person to person, balanced and evidence-based nutrition recommendations rarely require fear, guilt, or extreme restriction.
Be cautious of nutrition advice that encourages eliminating entire food groups without medical necessity or professional guidance. If nutrition information leaves you feeling anxious, fearful of everyday foods, or overwhelmed about what you are “allowed” to eat, it may be worth taking a closer look at the source of that information. Unfortunately, misinformation spreads quickly online, especially when it comes from individuals without formal nutrition training or credentials. Registered Dietitians are trained nutrition professionals who rely on current research, science, and evidence-based recommendations to help people make informed decisions about their health.
True wellness is not about perfection. It is not about following extreme diets or cutting out every food you enjoy. Wellness can look like drinking enough water, staying active, eating balanced meals, enjoying meals with family and friends, managing stress, and nourishing your body consistently over time.
This National Wellness Month, focus on balance rather than fear. Small, sustainable habits often have the greatest long-term impact on our health. I will also be conducting a four-week nutrition education series throughout the month of August where participants will learn practical skills to help make healthy eating part of their everyday lifestyle at the following locations:
Dunkirk Senior Citizens Center
45 Cliffstar Court, Dunkirk, NY 14048
Tuesdays at 10:00 AM
August 4, 11, 18, and 25
North Harmony Senior Citizens Center
5377 Stow Ferry Rd, Stow, NY 14785
Tuesdays at 2:00 PM
August 4, 11, and 18, and 25
The Chautauqua Center
107 Institute St, Jamestown, NY 14701
Wednesdays at 10:00 AM
August 5, 12, and 19
We will discuss healthy eating patterns that may help reduce the risk of chronic disease, how to read and better understand food labels, making quick and healthy meals, eating well on a budget, and cooking for a one-to-two-person household. A variety of additional nutrition and wellness topics will also be covered in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Register with NY Connects today at 716-753-4582. I hope to see you there!
Check out our website at https://chqgov.com/office-aging to see all the programs and services offered. Additionally, by signing up for our communication system, if you are not already registered, will provide you with information at your fingertips. We send messages about the current programs you may be interested in through your preferred communication method: text, email, or an automated call. If you are not already signed up to receive these messages, just call us at our NY Connects line 716-753-4582.
By making simple and healthy choices on a daily basis, you will be well on your way towards achieving total wellness. We know the healthy choice is not always the easiest choice, but small changes can make a big difference. Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services offers Nutrition & Wellness programs to support you in your journey toward total wellness. Call NY Connects at 716-753-4582 for more details and information about any of the Nutrition and Wellness programs provided by Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services.
SNAP-Ed materials are funded by USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. Some of these materials have been funded in whole or in part by grants from the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA), and/ or the Administration on Aging (AOA) and/ or Administration for Community Living (ACL). Nothing herein is intended, nor should be construed, as an endorsement by the State of New York.
