Fuel the Future this March for National Nutrition Month

Did you know National Nutrition Month started as National Nutrition Week in 1973?  Now it is a month-long celebration throughout March organized by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This year marks the 50^th anniversary of this celebration! National Nutrition Month focuses on the importance of developing healthy eating habits and engaging in regular physical activity.

Each year has a theme to promote healthy eating habits, this year’s is “Fuel for the Future.” What this encompasses is healthy eating patterns that are not only good for you but, for the environment too.

Did you know that eating one less burger a week would be the equivalent of taking your car off the road for 320 miles? Plant-based companies can produce a burger with a fraction of the water, land, and greenhouse gases of a conventional burger.

Celebrating in a Healthy Way

Often people use the word “healthy” and are not sure exactly what it means. Healthy looks different for everyone however, there are a few things that are generally considered “better” for you. See below for some general healthy lifestyle tips:

• Make half your plate fruits and vegetables. Eat an array of different colored produce to maximize your micronutrient intake.
• Make at least half your grains whole. Most Americans don’t eat enough fiber, eating more whole grains can help you reach your recommended fiber intake.
• Vary your protein choices. Try not to eat just one source of protein, try to eat a variety of proteins to prevent boredom and optimize your protein intake.
• Cut back on sodium. Too much sodium can raise your blood pressure, damaging your heart and kidneys.
• Move your body. Find a physical activity you like doing and do it! Of course, consult a doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.

Plant-Based Foods

Incorporating more plant-based foods into your diet is a great way to increase your micronutrient intake while helping the environment. While many wonderful meat alternative products are on the market, you can obtain your body’s required protein with whole foods. Many plants and grains are wonderful sources of protein. Here are other sources of plant-based protein:

• Tofu. This soy-based product is wonderful because it absorbs whatever flavor you season it with.

• Lentils. They are easy to cook and can be added to many other meals such as salad or soups for an added source of protein.

• Nuts. Many nuts are packed with protein and healthy fats! A handful of mixed nuts makes a perfect on-the-go snack.

• Vegetables. A single stalk of broccoli has about 4 grams of protein.

• Chickpeas. You can have them hot or cold, either way, they are a high-protein source that can be used in many recipes.

Mix it up in the kitchen and substitute your traditional meat with one of these plant-based alternatives! They are easy to cook, taste great, and you might be able to fool your family into thinking they are eating the real thing!

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