March is National Nutrition Month®! Thirty-eight years ago a week long campaign to promote nutrition was launched by the American Dietetic Association. That same campaign gained public popularity and has since expanded to what is now known as National Nutrition Month®. This March the theme is “Eat Right with Color.” The American Dietetic Association (ADA) recommends:

Nutrient-dense foods. The ADA also suggests focusing foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals and lower in calories and fat.  For example, whole grain toast with low-fat cheese, fruit, and a cup of coffee with low-fat milk will provide more nutrients than a muffin and a coffee drink filled with sugared syrup and whipped cream.  Try the yummy National Nutrition Month recipes, which will satisfy your taste buds and your body’s craving for nutrients!

Variety is important. Varying the foods you consume will ensure you are getting all the nutrients that your body needs. Aim to build a rainbow on
your plate!

Make the most of family meal-time. The eating habits children learn today are the habits they will have tomorrow. Model healthy eating habits with children to help them make healthy choices.

Physical activity is important for “managing weight and overall health.” MyPyramid encourages at least 30 minutes per day.

These five key messages are at the core of all the events taking place during National Nutrition Month®. Activities in different venues are put on by the ADA to spread nutrition awareness. In schools and at community centers there are activities and/or events taking place to celebrate National Nutrition Month®. For more information about events or activities or information in about National Nutrition Month®, click here.

Blog contributors: Connie Schneider, Ph.D., R.D., Kathleen Burke, CSUF Dietetic Intern, & Shelby MacNab, Nutrition Program Manager