No matter how much we'd like to sugarcoat it—and that's certainly not good for our nutrition— more than 40 percent of Americans are obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Obesity puts you at risk for certain types of cancer, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke, and carries an annual medical cost of more than $175 billion for sufferers in the United States.

Maintaining a healthy weight is a delicate balance of many factors, such as physical activity, sleep and managing stress. One of the simplest and most effective changes for an immediate positive effect on your health is to incorporate nutritious foods into your daily diet.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of National Nutrition Month. In Giddy's special series, we'll talk about the important relationship between exercise, nutrition and sleep. We will also spend time on the links between eating well and your libido, which could take your sex life to the next level. We'll also provide you with do's and don'ts regarding fad diets, processed foods and hydration, as well as some useful resources to help you on your nutritional journey.

Good nutrition is about much more than looking like you're ready for the red carpet at the Oscars. It's about general health, avoiding disease and feeling great!