Over the course of 2021, many of us continued to adapt to a “new normal,” characterized by a return to some pre-pandemic activities mixed with hobbies or habits that have emerged since 2020’s lockdowns. On the topic of food and eating, according to one U.S. consumer survey the year marked a decrease in certain behaviors that had changed abruptly during 2020. For example, fewer Americans reported that they were “snacking more” (18% in 2021 vs. 32% in 2020) or “eating more in general” (11% in 2021 vs. 20% in 2020). However, consumers also signaled a decrease in cooking at home (47% in 2021 vs. 60% in 2020); while other survey findings underscored significant disparities in food security. Beyond food, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to generate a wide range of unique and individual impacts, and the emergence of new disease variants is a sobering reminder of the urgency for increased vaccination globally, especially in low- and lower-middle-income countries.
As we all continue to navigate the twists and turns of this pandemic, we once again invite you to do what you can to incorporate healthy behaviors into your daily life. This year’s edition revisits the core themes of eating well, being active, and getting enough sleep with selected research highlights, as well as a closer look at some popular nutrition and lifestyle topics. We hope that you find it useful, and we wish you a very healthy and fulfilling 2022.
Download a copy of the Healthy Living Guide (PDF) featuring printable tip sheets and summaries, or access many of the full online articles through the links below.
Hint: the answers can be found throughout last year’s Healthy Living Guide. Access the full edition here if you haven’t checked it out!
Use healthy oils (like olive and canola oil) for cooking, on salad, and at the table. Limit butter. Avoid trans fat.
Drink water, tea, or coffee (with little or no sugar). Limit milk/dairy (1-2 servings/day) and juice (1 small glass/day). Avoid sugary drinks.
The more veggies — and the greater the variety — the better. Potatoes and French fries don’t count.
Eat plenty of fruits of all colors
Choose fish, poultry, beans, and nuts; limit red meat and cheese; avoid bacon, cold cuts, and other processed meats.
Eat a variety of whole grains (like whole-wheat bread, whole-grain pasta, and brown rice). Limit refined grains (like white rice and white bread).
Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine.
Create healthy, balanced meals using this visual guide as a blueprint.
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Explore the downloadable guide with tips and strategies for healthy eating and healthy living.
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