National Nutrition Month

By Kim Griffin

Family and Consumer Sciences Agent

UF IFAS Extension – Suwannee County

During the month of March we celebrate National Nutrition Month, and this year we celebrate it’s 50^th anniversary. The goal of this campaign is to highlight the importance of making smart food choices, and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. The theme for National Nutrition Month 2023 is Fuel for the Future. Here are a few tips on how you can fuel your body for a healthy future.

Eat with the environment in mind

Enjoy healthy plant-based meals and snacks. Include foods that come from plants, like fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds. Eating a healthy plant-based diet can mean lower greenhouse emissions, less use of cropland and less use of irrigation water.
When possible, buy foods in bulk to reduce the use of packaging, especially plastic.
Buy foods that are in season and shop locally.
Start a home garden. Consider growing foods at home by starting a garden in a container or backyard. No packaging required!

Save Money while staying nourished and healthy

Plan meals and snacks in advance.
Make a shopping list. Check for items in the pantry, refrigerator and freezer before heading to the store.
Look for savings in store ads and use coupons. Use your shopping list and stick to it.
Use the “Shop Simple with MyPlate” tool to help you save more money when shopping at the grocery store.

Eat a variety of foods from all food groups

Eating a variety of foods will help you get the nutrients that you need for good health.
Eat foods in a variety of forms including fresh, frozen, and canned.
Avoid diet plans with extreme restrictions.
Eat foods that are low in saturated fat, added sugar and sodium.

Make tasty meals at home

The way that foods are prepared can affect our eating habits and overall health. Preparing foods at home allows you to control the ingredients and amounts used.
Try new flavors and foods and find creative ways to prepare some of your favorite recipes.
Making healthy home-cooked meals provide an opportunity to gather around the dinner table with family and friends.

References:

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. National Nutrition Month. (2023, March). Retrieved from https://www.eatright.org/national-nutrition-month-2023

UF/IFAS Extension is an Equal Opportunity Institute.