Happy National Nutrition Month!
Every March, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics encourages people to make informed food choices and develop sound eating and physical activity habits to be followed all year long. National Nutrition Month® started in 1973 as National Nutrition Week, and by the end of the decade, the weekly observance had expanded to a full month in response to growing interest in nutrition.
This year’s Nutrition Month theme is “Fuel for the Future.” Eating with sustainability in mind is a tasty way to nourish ourselves during every phase of life and protect the environment. It’s important that we fuel our bodies with the right nutrients for every age and eat with the environment in mind. Practice gratitude for your body by giving it the fuel it needs with sustainable foods!
Tip 1: Eat with the environment in mind.
- Enjoy more plant-based meals and snacks.
- Purchase foods with minimal packaging.
- Buy foods in season and shop locally when possible.
- Start a container or backyard garden to grow food at home.
Tip 2: See a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).
- Ask your doctor for a referral to an RDN.
- Find an RDN who specializes in your unique needs.
- Learn how nutrient needs may change with age.
- Receive personalized nutrition information to meet your health goals.
Tip 3: Stay nourished and save money.
- Plan your meals and snacks.
- See what food you have at home before purchasing more.
- Use a grocery list and shop sales when purchasing food.
- Learn about community resources such as SNAP, WIC and local food banks.
Tip 4: Eat a variety of foods from all food groups.
- Include your favorite cultural foods and traditions.
- Eat foods in various forms including fresh, frozen, canned and dried.
- Avoid fad diets that promote unnecessary restrictions.
- Practice gratitude for your body by giving it the fuel it needs.
Tip 5: Make tasty foods at home.
- Learn cooking and meal preparation skills.
- Try new flavors and foods from around the world.
- Find creative ways to use leftovers rather than tossing them.
- Create happy memories by eating with friends and family when possible.
Celebrating Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day
During National Nutrition Month®, the Academy also celebrates our RDNs on Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day! This year’s observance is March 8. “Ask your health care provider for a referral to an RDN who specializes in your unique needs,” says Amy Bragagnini, RDN and Academy Spokesperson. “Learn how your nutritional needs change over time.”
For the first time this year, the Academy is also launching Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR) Day on March 9 to honor the contributions and experience of NDTRs, who are valuable members of the health care and foodservice management teams.
Meet Shield HealthCare’s Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Team!
