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Eating Right Is Not Complicated
- Emphasize fruit, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat or fat-free milk and milk products.
- Include lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts.
- Make sure your diet is low in saturated fats, trans fats, salt (sodium) and added sugars. eatingright.org
Make Your Calories Count
- Eat foods rich in nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals and fiber.
- Eat lower calorie foods. eatingright.org
Focus on Variety
- Eat a variety of food from all food groups.
- Fruits and vegetables can be fresh, frozen or canned.
- Eat dark green vegetables such as leafy greens or broccoli.
- Eat orange vegetables such as sweet potatoes and carrots.
- Vary your protein choices with more fish, beans and peas.
- Emphasize fruit, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat or fat-free milk and milk products.
- Include lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts.
- Eat at least 3 ounces of whole-grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice or pasta every day. eatingright.org
Check the Ingredient List
- Foods with more than one ingredient must have an ingredient list on the label.
- Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight.
- Those in the largest amounts are listed first. eatingright.org
The Wellness Institute at Whittier Street Health Center
Whittier’s Wellness Institute includes a community garden and a Fitness Club as well as a number of Dieticians on staff who can assist you in planning healthy meals. Our community garden is about to start planting for this season. To learn more, please call Whittier Street Health Center at 617-427-1000.
Cancer Prevention and Awareness Month
Every February, we observe National Cancer Prevention Month to raise awareness about the social and environmental factors that impact cancer risk and to empower patients with information and resources that support prevention, early detection, and intervention. In 2025, there were approximately 2 million new cancer cases and about 618,000 cancer deaths, averaging nearly 5,600 new […]
MoreNational Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
February 7 marks National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, observed annually to raise awareness about the disproportionate impact of HIV on Black communities and to spotlight the need for equitable, culturally responsive prevention, testing, and treatment services. HIV/AIDS has disproportionately impacted Black communities since the start of the epidemic in the early 1980s¹, and that disparity […]
MoreBlack History Month – Annual Meeting
Black History Month, celebrated every February, is a time to honor and amplify the history and contributions of Black Americans in shaping every facet of society. This year’s observance carries special significance: 2026 marks the centennial anniversary of Black History Month celebrations in the United States, first founded by historian Carter G. Woodson in 1926 […]
MoreRacism and Racial Inequality in Health Care
Despite strides toward closing the racial life expectancy gap in Boston1, racism and racial inequality continue to impact health outcomes, access to services, and treatment quality for communities of color. The 2024 Health of Boston Access to Care Report shows that Black, Latinx, and migrant residents face significant barriers to health insurance coverage and affordability, […]
MoreCervical Health Awareness Month
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer found in women globally, with about 13,000 new cases diagnosed every year in the United States1. While these numbers are concerning, cervical cancer is also one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. Over the past three decades, the American Cancer Society has documented […]
MoreMental Health During the Holidays
The holiday season is a time of celebration and cheer, but for many, it can also bring increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation. As many as 28% of Americans report heightened stress and poor mental health during the holidays, citing financial strain, grief and loss, and challenging family dynamics1. If you’ve ever felt weighted […]
MoreClean Teeth for Toys
The holiday season is a wonderful time for families to come together, celebrate traditions, and enjoy the sweet treats that make this time of year so special. It’s also a great opportunity to help children build healthy habits that keep their smiles strong all year long. Encouraging regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups can make a meaningful difference in children’s lifelong […]
MoreSenior Holiday Celebration
No matter your age, the holidays are an opportunity to be joyful, build connections, and create community. At Whittier Street Health Center, we understand that this season can be challenging for many older adults. Research shows that seniors are at higher risk for loneliness, which can worsen physical and mental health issues such as chronic disease, anxiety, depression, […]
MoreWorld AIDS Day
Observed every year on December 1st, World AIDS Day brings communities together across the globe to honor the more than 32 million lives lost to AIDS-related illnesses and to support the 39 million people currently living with HIV.¹ The day serves as both a remembrance and a call to action to expand access to testing, […]
MoreHealthy Holiday Eating
The holidays are a time to celebrate and connect with family, friends, and community. With busy schedules and many festive foods to choose from, it can be challenging to maintain healthy habits. Fortunately, you don’t have to give up your favorite foods to feel your best this season. Just making small, mindful changes can help […]
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