Fallston, Maryland - Host of EXTRA, producer, actress, and New York Times best-selling author Maria Menounos has partnered with the Mexican Hass Avocado Importers Association (MHAIA) on a public service announcement (PSA) reminding viewers that self-esteem comes from making good decisions – like eating right. MHAIA's goal with the PSA is to help the public focus on engaging in positive behaviors that promote self-image and living a healthful, satisfied life.

In the PSA, Menounos advocates for making small choices to help you feel your best – including eating right, surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family, and exercising. Throughout the PSA, Menounos is shown preparing and enjoying a delicious and nutritious meal with friends.

"There are so many things that contribute to self-esteem, and for me it's more than just a dress size," Menounos explains in the PSA. "I've found that when I eat well – plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits like avocados, whole grains, and lean proteins like fish - I feel like my best self."

Menounos directs viewers to the United States Department of Agriculture's Choose MyPlate website which encourages healthy eating habits, and provides strategies to help consumers make half their plate fruits and vegetables.

"As a USDA MyPlate partner, Avocados from Mexico understands the importance of a healthy diet in overall wellness," explains Mike Browne, Chairman of MHAIA. "We also know healthy eating doesn't have to be boring. Avocados are extremely versatile, they can be eaten alone, or used in a variety of tasty recipes - from soups and salads, to smoothies and desserts, or substituted as bread spread in place of many other popular foods."

A three-slice (one-ounce) serving of avocados has 50 calories and contribute nearly 20 vitamins and minerals as well as the "good" fats. Avocados from Mexico are available all year-round.

For more information about making healthy choices, visit choosemyplate.gov. To watch the PSA and learn creative uses for avocados visit theamazingavocado.com. The PSA will air on broadcast television nationally through September 2013 in 60-second, 30-second, 15-second, and 10-second versions.

About Avocados from Mexico

The Mexican Hass Avocado Importers Association and the Producers and Packers of Avocados from Michoacan (APEAM) are dedicated to providing a consistent supply of high quality avocados throughout the year. Avocados from Mexico are available year round and can be found in your local grocery store in the produce aisle. Mexico's rich volcanic soil, abundant sunshine, and timely rainfall provide the perfect climate for producing fine avocados. Avocado enthusiasts can find MHAIA on Facebook (search: The Amazing Avocado) and @AmazingAvocado on Twitter. For more information, visit avocadosfrommexico.com.