March is National Nutrition Month® to help us remember to make healthy informed choices on diet and activity.
This year’s theme is Eat Right, Bite by Bite.
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has a carefully planned out four-week system to help everyone become more conscious of our health.
Week 1:
–Eat a healthy, fully balanced diet.
–Drink plenty of water.
–Learn to read those pesky Nutrition Fact Panels.
–Make sure you eat the right portions.
–Slow down your eating and enjoy your food.
Week 2:
–Plan a healthy grocery list
–Pay attention to the menu when eating out
–Pick heathy recipes to prepare during the week
–Travel plans should include healthy eating
Week 3:
–Keep healthy ingredients at home
–Use proper food safety
–Eat as a family when you can
–Stop wasting as much food
–Try new foods and flavors
Week 4:
–See a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
–Meet a specialized RDN if you have special needs
–Enjoy how much better you feel with a healthy lifestyle
Whew! That sure seems like a lot to change for some people.
One simple change we have made in my home is keeping a large variety of fruits and vegetables readily accessible to cook, snack on, or prepare food with.
Carrots, Romaine and Iceberg lettuce, cucumbers, jalapenos, tomatoes, green onions, bok choy, kiwis, grapes, strawberries, apples, onions, garlic, ginger, and so much more!
Love tacos, but want to cut back on carbs? Use a lettuce leaf instead.
Try making your own healthy soup, or you can make your own ramen.
Fish can be surprisingly easy to prepare, and two servings a week is considered a healthy amount.
Incorporate more whole grains up to half of your grains. Oats, quinoa, barley, rye, and even popcorn are whole grains.
No matter your diet, there are always healthy choices.
If you are not sure, a quick search online or call to your doctor’s office can help you decide.
Eating healthy and delicious food makes for One Amazing Month.