Tips for maintaining healthy eating habits

In 2015, the ADA conducted a Member Health and Wellness Survey that polled 2,122 dentists, spouses, and family members, according to the ADA Center for Professional Success. The survey revealed that 9.7 percent had been diagnosed with an eating disorder. Two percent were diagnosed with Bulimia, 5.2 percent were diagnosed with compulsive overeating, and 2.5 percent were diagnosed with anorexia.

Eating disorders affect a person’s physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. It is estimated that 20 million women and 10 million men suffer from a significant eating disorder in their lifetime. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009-2010, almost 70 percent of Americans are overweight or obese. How you handle stress and eating habits can have an impact on healthy living, especially on healthy weight management.

The ADA has tips for developing and maintaining healthy eating habits.

Tips include:

• Healthy eating starts at home with a balanced breakfast. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends eating breakfast consisting of whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables.
• Pack a lunch and be prepared to eat healthier and save money by avoiding fast food restaurants.
• If you must eat out, do some research in advance and locate a restaurant that offers healthy meal options.
• A healthy mid-morning and mid-afternoon snack is a good thing.
• Avoid mindless eating while at your desk or in between patients.
• Remember portion control.
• Read your food labels – nutrition labels are the key to making smarter and healthier food choices.

You can also download a resource sheet that discusses various eating disorders and symptoms along with information for seeking assistance.

When you begin to notice that eating habits are affecting your life, your happiness, and your ability to concentrate, it’s important that you talk to somebody about what you’re going through.

The ADA’s Health and Wellness Program can connect you with the right professionals to get you on the road to recovery. Please contact Alison Bramhall at bramhalla@ada.org or 1-312-440-2622 or review the National Eating Disorders Association searchable Treatment Provider Database to find treatment options in your area.