|Healthy Heart, Happy Heart| |Women and Nutrition| |At Your
Request| |Ask the RD| |Frequently Asked Questions| Page 5 of 9A
well-balanced diet provides fuel and essential nutrients for a
woman’s body and mind. Nutrient rich foods help support a
healthy immune system which is one of your best defenses against
bacteria, viruses, certain types of cancer and in reducing your
risk of chronic diseases. It is important to consume a variety
of foods, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy
fats, low-fat dairy and lean protein. Certain nutrient needs
change as women go through various stages of life. Regular
exercise is also important in women’s health. Plan meals by
trying to include all food groups daily: • Whole grains, such as
whole-grain bread, cereal, pasta, brown rice, quinoa, barley,
rye or oats. • Low-fat or fat-free dairy products such as low-
fat or fat-free milk, yogurt or cheese. • Protein such as
chicken, turkey, fish, lean meat, beans, lentils or peas. •
Fruit such as apples, berries, melon, or