Remember These Key Messages During National Nutrition Month
For many years, March has been a springboard for nutrition messages from nutrition educators throughout the U.S. Consider taking a week-by-week approach in March to improve your diet, and potentially, your health.
Which of these tips do you already use? Which could you add to your life?
See if you can make a little progress on these goals for several weeks in March – and keep going in April as we prepare for spring.
Week 1
- Include healthful foods from all food groups.
- Hydrate healthfully.
- Learn how to read Nutrition Facts panels.
- Avoid distractions while eating.
- Take time to enjoy your food.
Week 2
- Use a grocery list to shop for healthful foods.
- Be menu-savvy when dining out.
- Choose healthful recipes to make during the week.
- Enjoy healthful eating at school and at work.
- Plan healthful eating while traveling.
Week 3
- Keep healthful ingredients on hand.
- Practice proper home food safety.
- Share meals together as a family when possible.
- Reduce food waste.
- Try new flavors and foods.
Week 4
- Ask your doctor for a referral to a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN).
- Receive personalized nutrition advice to meet your goals.
- Meet RDNs in a variety of settings in your community.
- Find an RDN who is a specialist to serve your unique needs.
- Thrive through the transformative power of food and nutrition.
If you are looking for printable handouts, the American Academy of Nutrition Dietetics offers help. Go to https://www.eatright.org/food/resources/national-nutrition-month/toolkit for many tip sheets.
Julie Garden-Robinson, Ph.D., R.D., L.R.D., food and nutrition specialist
