It's National Nutrition Month!

Once a year, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (the organization by which I am credentialed and qualified to provide nutrition advice) dedicates the month of March to a themed campaign that brings attention to "the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits."

For 2018, the theme is "Go Further with Food."

I really love the theme this year because it can mean so many different things for everyone. To my, the theme means giving a purpose (and appreciation) to everything that I put into my body. In other words, I choose to make every bite count.

Prepping food in advance, planning ahead, cutting back on food waste, managing food resources appropriately, protecting the environment and supporting local farmers are some of the many ways that you "Go Further with Food."

Here are a few suggestions from Eatright.org: 

1. Include a variety of healthful foods from all of the food groups on a regular basis.
2. Consider the foods you have on hand before buying more at the store.
3. Buy only the amount that can be eaten or frozen within a few days and plan ways to use leftovers later in the week.
4. Be mindful of portion sizes. Eat and drink the amount that’s right for you, as MyPlate encourages us to do.
5. Continue to use good food safety practices.
6. Find activities that you enjoy and be physically active most days of the week.
7. Realize the benefits of healthy eating by consulting with a registered dietitian nutritionist. RDNs can provide sound, easy-to-follow personalized nutrition advice to meet your lifestyle, preferences and health-related needs.

• For more educational handouts and materials, click HERE.
  
• Here's a great article on the importance of reducing food waste: Click HERE.
  
• Here's a great read on reasons to support local farms: Click HERE

How will you Go Further With Food this month?