How Food Brings Us Together During National Nutrition Month
Every year in March, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics celebrates National Nutrition Month. This year’s theme emphasizes how food brings us together through culture, family, tradition, and shared experiences while also impacting our health. In today’s post, I’ll share key messages about how food connects us and influences our lives.
Embrace food
Food is more than just something we eat to survive; it connects us to our communities, health, and culture. Knowing where your food comes from is a great place to start. Try shopping at farmers markets or joining a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) to support local farmers and enjoy seasonal produce. Experiment with new recipes and cooking methods, and give meal planning a try to save time and money. Learning about community resources, such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), and food banks can also help ensure access to healthy foods.
Meet with a registered dietitian
Registered dietitians are nutrition experts. As a dietitian, I can help with a wide variety of needs, such as:
Diabetes and prediabetes
Cardiovascular health (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, etc.)
Prenatal and postpartum nutrition
Gestational diabetes
PCOS
Gastrointestinal issues (IBS, Celiac disease, acid reflux)
Weight management (weight loss or weight gain)
General healthy eating
If you’re interested in improving your health with better nutrition, contact me to set up a free 15-minute phone call today!
Learn about the relationship between food and culture
Every culture has its own unique ingredients and recipes. Instead of always cooking with the same ingredients, try branching out and experimenting with something new. You may find something that you love and didn’t know was out there! Eating a diverse range of foods not only adds excitement to your meals but also helps ensure a more balanced intake of nutrients.
Foster a lifelong connection with food
Our nutrient needs change as we age, so it’s important to adjust our food intake accordingly. Developing awareness of our nutritional needs can help us maintain a long and healthy life. Including whole foods from all food groups is especially beneficial for ensuring a balanced diet. Avoid fad diets, and instead, focus on sustainable eating habits that support lifelong health.
Food brings us together in many ways. Embracing food, meeting with a registered dietitian, learning about the relationship between food and culture, and fostering a lifelong connection with food are all steps that can help ensure a healthy life. Making mindful choices and eating a variety of foods can help us nourish our bodies and communities for life!
