March is National Nutrition Month

March is National Nutrition Month!

National Nutrition Month is a nutrition education campaign created annually in March by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND). This annual campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing healthy eating and physical activity habits. This year, the Academy is encouraging everyone to “Personalize your Plate.”

What can you personally do to make a better food choices?

1.    Eat a Variety of nutritious foods every day! Build a healthy, colorful plate by adding more fruits and vegetables. Include foods from all the food groups, and try something new. Bean adventurous eater!

2.   Plan Ahead. Think about the meals and healthy snacks that you want to make or eat for the week, make a grocery list, and shop accordingly. By planning ahead and knowing what you have to eat, you will not only save time and money, but you will be less likely to reach for a candy bar when hunger strikes. (Pro tip: never shop on an empty stomach!)

3.   Get Cooking. Cooking is a great hobby! Search your favorite cookbook for a new recipe to try or find an on-line cooking demonstration to get your creative juices flowing. People who frequently cook dinner at home are more aware of portion sizes and tend to consume fewer calories than those who cook less often. Challenge yourself to try a new recipe or master some kitchen basics, like dicing onions or making your own salad dressing.

Being healthy doesn’t have to be hard. All it takes is a little planning and time. Think of your plate as your personal canvas, and fill it with a variety of colors and textures that make you happy.

Let me know what you did this month to “Personalize YOUR Plate.”

Laura

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