Celebrate National Nutrition Month® this March

Published by Katie on March 7, 2015

By Nicole Parmenter, Dietetic Intern for FitNutrition, LLC and Providence College Athletics, and Katie Jeffrey, MS, RD, CSSD

What is National Nutrition Month?

Did you know that March is National Nutrition Month®? Originally a week-long event in 1973, it was established by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and expanded to a month-long observance in 1980 due to growing public interest in nutrition and wellness.

The campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of healthful eating and physical activity in weight management and disease prevention. Each year, the Academy introduces a new theme. This year’s theme encourages everyone to “Bite into a Healthy Lifestyle.”

What Does a Healthy Lifestyle Mean?

A healthy lifestyle is not about quick fixes, magic pills, or superfoods. Instead, it focuses on adopting a nutrient-rich eating plan combined with regular physical activity. The key to long-term health is:

• Eating mindfully
• Making thoughtful food choices
• Finding enjoyable ways to move your body

Even small, positive lifestyle changes can accumulate and create a significant impact on your overall health and well-being.

Building a Healthy Eating Plan

To achieve optimal health, it’s important to set realistic goals. Small, gradual changes help create sustainable habits. A balanced eating plan follows three essential principles:

• Balance: Ensuring your body gets all the nutrients it needs for optimal health.
• Variety: Eating a wide range of foods from all food groups since no single food provides all necessary nutrients.
• Moderation: Being mindful of portion sizes and the frequency of certain foods.

For personalized nutrition advice, consult a registered dietitian-nutritionist—the experts in nutrition. You can find a registered dietitian-nutritionist through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics website.

Additional Resources on Mindful Eating

• The Art of Eating Mindfully
• Strategies to Master Mindful Eating
• Mindful Eating Articles

Tips to Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

1. Eat mindfully and choose an eating plan that suits your lifestyle.
2. Plan your meals and shop weekly.
3. Keep nutrient-rich foods in your kitchen for easy access.
4. Incorporate a variety of vegetables and fruits into your diet.
5. Keep nutrient-dense snacks available, such as:
   • Nuts and fruit
   • Low-fat cheese stick with fruit
   • Hummus with veggie sticks
6. Stay active—engage in daily physical activities that you enjoy.

References

• May, Michelle, M.D. Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat. 2011.
• O’Malley, Ryan. “This National Nutrition Month Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Encourages Everyone to ‘Bite into a Healthy Lifestyle.’” Eatright.org, The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 14 Jan. 2015. Web. 22 Jan. 2015.