Most people know that eating plenty of vegetables and fruits is a smart idea — research shows doing so can reduce risk of heart disease and obesity, some cancers, diabetes and hypertension, among other things. Despite the benefits, many still do not get the recommended daily servings.
That’s where the Colorful Choices program can help.
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Registration is now open for this eight-week online nutrition program, which encourages participants to eat produce each day — in red, orange, yellow/white, green, and blue/violet. The program is open to benefits-eligible faculty and staff and runs June 12-Aug. 6.
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. You don’t have to count calories or fat grams,” says Erica Owen, manager of nutrition and weight management for MHealthy.
“Adding a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to your diet is one of the simplest ways to eat healthier and get the nutrients you need. You’ll have more energy and gain the benefits that come packed in produce — vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytochemicals, which are health-boosting nutrients found only in plants.”
As an added bonus, Colorful Choices also qualifies for MHealthy Rewards. Benefits-eligible employees who have not yet completed two eligible activities in 2017 can earn a $50 reward by accumulating at least 200 points in Colorful Choices.
The university has also made it easier to get fresh produce on campus. Starting this month and continuing into the fall, M Farmers Markets are available at select locations on the Ann Arbor and Michigan Medicine campuses.
Kimberly Scott
Looking forward to adding more fruits and vegetables for a healthier lifestyle.
Eunshin Byon
I would like to join this program