National Nutrition Month is celebrated in March each year. This year’s theme is “Food Connects Us”. When you think about it, food is much more than what is on a plate. Food is a source of nourishment, but it also connects us to our culture, our families and friends. While memories and traditions play a strong role in our food choices, the food we eat also impacts our health.
Heathy eating can strengthen our connections. Preparing and sharing meals together and supporting nutrition fosters both physical and emotional relationships.
Make constructive choices when it comes to connecting with food in a positive way!
- When meal planning, aim for a balanced and varied diet that includes a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This ensures you get a wide array of nutrients.
- This Mexican Chicken salad is a delicious mix of boldly-seasoned, baked chicken, fresh veggies, and beans tossed in a lime dressing. It’s full of protein and flavor, with a little spice from jalapeño. Make it a meal or use as a topper on a a bed of lettuce for a light and tasty meal everyone will enjoy.
- Practice mindful eating by paying attention to hunger and fullness cues. Avoid distractions during meals and savor the flavors and textures of your food.
- Bite into this curry chicken salad wrap. The savory flavors, sweet grapes and crispy vegetables will be worthy of your full attention and leave you satisfied for hours.
- Plan and prepare meals in advance to avoid the temptation of unhealthy, convenient options. Having nutritious options readily available makes it easier to stick to your health goals.
- Start your day the right way with rich Apple Pie Overnight Oats that can be prepared ahead of time. This breakfast treat in a jar is the perfect breakfast all year. For less than 300 calories and whopping 10 grams of fiber, your whole family will love this dessert-like treat that tastes just like a slice of fresh baked apple pie
- Choose healthier cooking methods like grilling, baking, steaming, or sautéing instead of frying. This helps retain the nutritional value of your foods.
- This Air Fryer Pecan Crusted Chicken is easy to prepare and cooked to crispy, tender perfection with minimal effort. The crunchy and seasoned pecan crust will make your taste buds think you ordered in from your favorite restaurant!
- If the wind isn’t blowing, turn on the grill for these easy steak fajitas. Wrap them in traditional tortillas, or to cut carbs, use large lettuce leaves instead.
- Sesame shrimp stir fry offers a a one-pot meal that is a well-balanced complete dinner. This easy recipe can be made in 30 minutes.
- Prepare a list for a focused and productive shopping trip. While nutrition experts may advise against impulse purchases, do not rule out exploring new products that can add variety and interesting new menu items and flavors.
- Leave yourself open to fresh produce. Instead of planning a specific fruit or vegetable, explore the seasonal fruits and vegetables that can compliment your meal or offer a healthful snack.
- When in doubt, add color to your cart. Bright greens from crunchy vegetables or vibrant reds from flavorful fruits will add interest and a healthy boost.
- Take the time to read food labels. Look for products with a short ingredient list, one in which you can identify the main components.
Look for minimal additives, lower sugar and salt content and limited saturated fats.
Celebrate how food connects us all of us during National Nutrition Month and remember the message all year long. Enjoy favorite foods but also explore new recipes and flavors. Share meals with friends and family. Try a new restaurant or host a dinner party. Food not only provides sustenance but also provides joy. Think of food as a bridge with the innate ability to connect people and places.
