By Emma Caplan-Fisher
March is the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' (formerly the American Dietetic Association) National Nutrition Month, and you can celebrate it in many ways. From visiting your local farmer's market to making healthy snacks, it's easier than you think to live well and eat nutritiously for the long term. Here are some great National Nutrition Month ideas to get started.
How to Celebrate National Nutrition Month
1. Visit a farmer’s market
Visiting a farmer's market in your area is a great way to support local businesses, meet the people behind the food, and enjoy fresh, healthy, seasonal produce. Look for what's fresh and in season at the moment, whether it's fresh greens like spinach or Swiss chard, veggies like green beans and mushrooms, or fresh fruit like strawberries and kiwi.
2. Cook a healthy meal as a family
When you prioritize family meals, without any phones or devices, you create the chance to bond as a group. Pick a family favorite – whether it's lasagna, ribs, tuna casserole, whatever – and talk about the day's highs, lows, and stories. Not only cooking but also cleaning up together gives you even more quality time to connect.
3. Try a new wholesome snack
Filling that midday hunger gap doesn't have to mean unhealthy, processed vending machine snacks that often make you feel sluggish later on. It's easy to make fresh, healthy, filling, and delicious snacks yourself, like those with whole-grain oats, great for on-the-go or at home.
4. Make a healthier dessert
There's no reason to completely cut yourself off from the foods you love – as the saying goes, everything in moderation, after all. But, you can choose healthier dessert options. For example, fruit and frozen yogurt, smoothies, or oat bars make great healthy sweet treats.
5. Volunteer at or donate to a food bank
Why not make a real impact right in your own community? Plenty of people rely on the food bank each day to get the nutrients they need. You can volunteer to help out if you've got some extra time or simply make a donation.
6. Do some meal planning
We're often busy with a lot of things to do throughout the week, which means that sometimes health and nutrition can take a backseat to quick and convenient meals. But, with a bit of planning for the week ahead, you can ensure you're getting the nutrition you need without the added time and energy from planning each night. Plus, your grocery shops will be more focused and efficient. Try meatless Mondays, taco Tuesdays, slow-cooker Thursdays, take-out Fridays, and stir-fry Saturdays, with Wednesdays and Sundays for leftovers.
7. Take a cooking class
Cooking can be a fun, relaxing, and therapeutic way to spend some time. Sharpen your skills in the kitchen and reward yourself with some healthy meals. The great thing about cooking at home is that meals are typically lower in calories, sodium, and fat (plus cheaper!) than they are at restaurants.
8. Try a meatless meal
Plant-based foods are tasty, healthy, and good for the planet. They're also versatile in many dishes. For some great vegetarian protein sources, try beans, lentils, quinoa, farro, edamame, tofu, and more.
9. Add whole grains to the mix
Whole grains are not only nutrient-dense compared to their white or non-grain counterparts, but they keep us feeling fuller longer. Opt for whole-grain pasta, bread, cereals, and rice. Or, when you're looking for a quick bite, give Bobo's oat bars a try – they're super tasty and come in many flavors.
National Nutrition Month FAQs
What is National Nutrition Month?
National Nutrition Month is an annual campaign run by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly the American Dietetic Association). Each year has a different theme centered around learning and ideas to eat nutritiously and lead a healthy lifestyle.
When is National Nutrition Month?
National Nutrition Month is held in March of each year.
What is the theme for National Nutrition Month 2024?
2024's National Nutrition Month theme is “Beyond the Table”.