by Soquel Keelean, UAA Dietetics and Nutrition Student
With daylight returning and spring in the air, March is a great time to consider how we can eat to best support our bodies and the planet. It’s National Nutrition Month and this year, with a theme of Fuel for the Future, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics invites us to eat with sustainability in mind. Here are some things you can do to stay nourished this month:
Eat sustainably and conscientiously. Purchasing foods with minimal packaging results in less waste in landfills and can encourage you to choose healthy whole foods like fruits and vegetables. Enjoying more plant-based meals and snacks is a great way to reduce the impact of your food choices on the environment. Buy foods that are in season, they usually have traveled less distance and are fresher. To really step up your sustainable eating, try planting a container or backyard garden to grow food at home and start a compost for food scraps.
See a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). Registered Dietitians are healthcare professionals who are experts in nutrition. You can ask your doctor for a referral to an RDN who specializes in your unique nutrition needs. Seeing a dietitian can help you learn how nutrient needs change with age. They can also give you personalized nutrition information to meet your health goals.
Stay nourished and save money. Planning your meals and snacks ahead is a great way to stick to a budget. Always check what food you have before buying more. Think of new ways to use what you already have when planning your meals. Use a grocery list and keep an eye out for sales. There are also community resources available such as SNAP, WIC, and local food banks.
Eat a variety of food from all food groups. A varied diet is a great way to make sure you are meeting all your nutrition needs. There’s room for all cultural foods and traditions in a balanced diet, so don’t feel like you don’t have to abandon these foods to eat healthy. Include foods in various forms such as fresh, frozen, canned, and dried. Avoid fad diets that promote unnecessary restrictions. Listen to your body and opt for foods that make you feel nourished and strong.
Make tasty foods at home. Learning new cooking and meal preparation skills can make cooking at home more exciting. Try new flavors and foods from around the world to keep things fun and expand your palate. Finding creative ways to use leftovers instead of tossing them is good for your budget and the environment. Eating with friends and family when possible is a great way to create happy memories with loved ones.
