Savor the flavor of eating right
March is National Nutrition Month® in which the theme is “Savor the Flavor of Eating Right.” What does this mean to you? Eating slowly to savor your dish? Reducing portion sizes? Using savory spices and herbs to try new dishes? The overall intent of National Nutrition Month® is to create awareness about how we are eating and what small changes we can make to be healthier by making informed choices. Year after year messages are consistent — adapt healthy eating habits and engage in physical activity.
Additionally, during National Nutrition Month, we celebrate Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) Day. Today, March 9, in fact, is RDN Day! This is a reminder to celebrate that RDNs are the nutritional experts and leading advocates for improving the nutritional status of Americans and other individuals around the globe. RDNs are able to facilitate behavior change without giving into fad diets that aren’t sustainable. Thank your RDN today for the expertise and support he or she provides to help consumers make informed choices!
We enjoy many cuisines every day that specialize in specific herbs and spices. This month, think of ways to enjoy foods from all cultures without sacrificing tradition and flavor and incorporating herbs and spices based on the cuisine you are preparing. For example, Mexican food utilizes cilantro or chili; Hungary uses onion and paprika; Italy uses tomato, olive oil, basil, and garlic; and India cooks with curry, cumin, and garlic.
Use National Nutrition Month® to try new fruit and vegetables, whole grains, or other healthy options. Experiment with savory herbs and spices to help reduce added sugars, salt, and saturated fat your diet. Take this time to be mindful of your eating patterns and consult your Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with any questions. It takes small changes to make large impacts. However it means to you, “savor the flavor of eating right.”
Kimberly Young, MS, RDN, LD, is the WIC Coordinator at Panhandle Health District and a graduate of the University of Idaho Dietetic program.