5 Tips for a Healthy Nutrition Journey

Creating conscious habits for a healthier lifestyle is no easy feat. Veterans worked under structured guidance when it came to physical readiness during active duty. However, some see their physical health decline after separating from the military. Physical and mental injuries that limit physical activity can contribute to weight gain. Just over half (52%) of warriors are obese based on their body-mass index, according to a Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) survey.

Learn more about nutrition through WWP’s Physical Health and Wellness program.

Developing healthy habits is essential to improving overall wellness for injured veterans. In recognition of National Nutrition Month, here are five tips for a healthy nutrition journey:

1. Water is essential. Set a goal to drink at least half your body weight in fluid ounces each day. From finding a water bottle that best suits your lifestyle to using phone apps that keep you on track, get creative with ways to increase your fluid intake.

2. How much is on your plate? It’s important to know how much you’re eating each day. If you are aiming for weight loss, keeping an eye on total calorie consumption will help you meet your goal. Consider starting a food diary or using a phone app that can help you track your consumption habits and keep you self-aware.

3. Serve it up. Eat five servings of veggies and fruit each day. They’re high in water and nutrients and will keep you full! You will feel satisfied and won’t be mindlessly eating.

4. Pick three. Select high-quality carbs, proteins, and fats to incorporate into your diet. Carbohydrates (vegetables, fruit, grains) help with energy, protein (both plant- and animal-based) builds cells within our body, and good fats (nuts, fish, avocado) protect the body.

5. Understand serving sizes. Do you know what one serving of carbs, protein, and fat looks like? Use the plate method or a portion control container to help you measure.

For more nutrition tips and resources throughout the month, visit WWP’s newsroom and search “nutrition,” and stay tuned into WWP’s social channels.

Contact: Vesta M. Anderson — Public Relations, vanderson@woundedwarriorproject.org, 904.570.0771

About Wounded Warrior Project

Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more.