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Understanding
the Energy Equation |
 Whether you want to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, it’s important to
understand the connection between the energy (calories) your body takes in
(through the foods you eat and the beverages you drink) and the energy your body
uses (through the activities you do). To lose weight, you need to use more
calories than you take in. To maintain a healthy weight, you need to balance the
calories you use with those you
take in. No matter what your personal goals are, eating a healthy diet and being
physically active can help you reach your goal.
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Getting the
Most Nutrition out of Your Calories
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 There is a right number of calories for you to eat every day. This number
depends on your age, activity level, and whether you are trying to gain,
maintain, or lose weight. You could reach your daily caloric limit on a few
high-calorie foods, but chances are, you won’t get the full range of vitamins
and nutrients your body needs to be healthy. Choose the most nutritionally rich foods you can from each food group every day
– those packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other nutrients, but lower in
calories. Pick foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or
low-fat milk and milk products more often.
For more information on nutrition, visit the following websites:
MyPyramid.gov
Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005
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Finding Your Balance
between Food and
Physical Activity |
 Becoming a healthier you isn’t just about eating healthy – it’s also about
physical activity. Regular physical activity is important for your overall
health and fitness. It also helps you control body weight by balancing the
calories you take in with the calories you expend each day.
- Be physically active at
a moderate intensity for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
Remember, you don’t have to get it all at once – three 10 minute segments
are just as beneficial!
- Increasing the intensity
or the amount of time that you are physically active can have even greater
health benefits and may be needed to control body weight. About 60 minutes a
day may be needed to prevent weight gain.
- Children and teenagers
should be physically active 60 minutes every day, or most every day.
For more information on
physical activity, visit the following websites:
Getting Started
Fitting It In! You Get So Much
For So Little!
Arizona
State Trails Program
Tips to Overcome Barriers to
Activity
Page content adapted from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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