Ellie Wilson
MS, RDN, CDN
Happy National Nutrition Month! This unique annual celebration of the benefits food brings to our lives marks 50 years the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has been working to create awareness that better health is built on the transformational power of nutrition. The theme this year, Fuel for the Future, recognizes that food choices and sustainability are always intertwined; fueling the future means eating well at every age and stage, and caring for the earth that provides our food.
How can you make this event meaningful for you and your family? Check out these 10 tips to fuel eating well with the environment in mind, this month, and every month.
-Learn about local foods and eat in season. What is your favorite local fruit or vegetable?
-Recycle packaging and containers as much as possible – everyone can be part of the solution!
-Try new fruits and vegetables, or double up on servings of the ones you enjoy – more is better, for you and for the earth.
-Explore foods through flavors and cultures – we live in a global community and learning about cultures through foods creates connection and communication.
-Eat meals and snacks together – family meals are key to better family communications, stronger social skills, better grades, and healthier eating.
-Plan shopping and meals to reduce waste and save money while staying nourished.
-Include children in planning and making meals and snacks when cooking at home. They can also help clean up! The more food skills children have, the more choices they have as they grow.
-Sip smarter – tap water, flavored or sparkling waters or teas without added sugars, in reusable containers, keep you hydrated and healthy.
-If you want a creative, personalized food and health plan, a registered dietitian-nutritionist is the right professional partner. Find one in your area at https://www.eatright.org/find-a-nutrition-expert.
-Practice gratitude for your body and health by eating a variety of foods – fresh, frozen, and canned are all part of a nourishing plan.
Want to discover new recipes? Check out some of our sites: