Research shows that a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can reduce risk of heart disease and obesity, some cancers, diabetes and hypertension, among other things. However, despite the benefits, many still do not get their recommended daily servings.
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That’s where the Colorful Choices program can help. The eight-week online nutrition program encourages participants to eat produce each day — in red, orange, yellow/white, green, and blue/violet. Registration is now open to benefits-eligible faculty and staff. The program starts June 11.
Available through a partnership between MHealthy and The StayWell Co., Colorful Choices includes access to new healthy recipes, healthy eating tips, and a mobile app to easily track produce intake. Employees can participate as an individual or as part of a team.
“One of the best things about this program is how easy it is — no calorie counting or measuring needed,” says Erica Owen, manager of nutrition and weight management for MHealthy.
“By adding a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to your diet you get the vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients your body needs, have more energy, and reduce your risk of developing some chronic health conditions.”
Colorful Choices is one of several programs that qualify for MHealthy Rewards 2018, which rewards employees $100 for completing healthy activities. Registration for Rewards remains open through June 30.
U-M has also kicked off its M Farmers Market series, making it easier to get fresh produce on campus. More than a dozen locations across the Ann Arbor and Michigan Medicine campuses will host markets now through the fall.
