National nutrition month - commissary tour Published March 29, 2013 By Donovan Jackson Air University Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- In recognition of National Nutrition Month, the Maxwell Health and Wellness Center held its quarterly Aisle-by-Aisle Commissary Tour, March 18. The 45-minute tour focused on promoting this year's National Nutrition Month theme, "Eat Right, Your Way, Everyday." "Attending a commissary tour is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and receive answers from our registered dietician on common items commissary patrons buy," said Master Sgt. Henry Myers, dietary technician for the 42nd Medical Group. "Often times, military members view eating healthy as a temporary fix to pass their fitness test," he said. "But the long-term effects can greatly reduce their chances of developing a variety of health concerns, such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity and high cholesterol to name a few and not to mention the medical cost associated with the aforementioned conditions." During the tour, portion control, sugar amounts, nutritional value and fat-free servings versus regular servings were just some of the topics addressed pertaining to how to maintain a healthier diet. "Eating healthier is very important," said Rashanda Gaddis, health education dietitian at the HAWC. "Obesity rates in this country are steadily increasing, and we have to make the necessary life adjustments to stop it." According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Alabama has the third highest obesity rate in the country at 32.5 percent. "It is easy to become confused about what is healthy and what isn't," Gaddis said. "We are simply trying to show everyone the truth behind the labels and give them a better understanding as to what is actually healthy and what is not." For more information about healthy lifestyle choices or the next commissary tour, contact the Health and Wellness Center at 953-7117.