Earth Day is a reminder that some of our best
moments can be spent in the great outdoors. Getting outside is one of the best
ways to feel re-invigorated, whether on a short hike to the Crags Trail on Pike
National Forest or on a longer exploration of the 2,175-mile Appalachian
Trail,
which winds through 14 states and across eight national forests. The range of
outdoor activities run the gamut from hiking, camping, boating, bird watching,
and experiencing wildlife to photographing nature, hunting and fishing. However
long you want to spend outdoors, the U.S. Forest Service and the Center for
Nutrition Policy and Promotion offer a few ideas to help you stay healthy while
enjoying activities of your choice.
Choose MyPlate Outdoors
Going on a
day trip to any of our 154 national forests or 20 national grasslands? Pack a
picnic lunch, some snacks, and drinks to keep everyone hydrated and satisfied.
Plan to have plenty of water with you and ready-to-eat foods such as
mini-carrots, oranges, 100 percent whole wheat bread, and a container of peanut
butter. Toss unsalted nuts and dried cranberries in small containers for easy
grab-and-go snacks.
Planning meals and snacks for
several days of outdoor activity may require a little more thought. Consider
ahead of time which foods to take, ways to keep your food safe, and how to prepare easy meals. Rely on
paper plates and include just a few cooking tools like a skillet or small pot
for meats or soups.
Mix quick-cooking oats with low-fat
dry milk powder, walnuts, and raisins for a fast breakfast. Chop veggies like
onions and peppers in advance to use when cooking over the campfire. Bring cans
of low-sodium soup or tuna fish that you can quickly re-heat or mix with
vegetables for lunch or dinner.
Also, think about cooking local
foods. Enjoying nature means appreciating and eating what’s available to you.
If you’re near the ocean, find a place to buy fresh fish. Visit a local farmers
market to find fresh veggies, eggs, meat, or local cheeses.
Savor your outdoor experience.
Eating outside near a lake or under the stars is a special event that you will
want to repeat. With just a little planning you can figure out how to have
healthy, delicious meals that make it easy to get away and enjoy your public
lands.
We have one request: Please abide by
the Leave
No Trace seven principles of outdoor ethics so the beauty you see
when you are there will be there when you return.
Posted by Kathryn Sosbe, Office of Communication, U.S. Forest Service; Donna Johnson-Bailey, Outreach and Social Media, Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, on April 22, 2014 at 2:00 PM
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