Every March, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics encourages the celebration of National Nutrition Month. Every year, a unique theme is adopted. The ultimate goal is to invite and encourage everyone to learn more about developing healthy habits and making informed food choices. The theme for the 2024 National Nutrition Month campaign is “Beyond the Table.” This emphasizes sustainability efforts, addresses the farm-to-fork aspect of nutrition, and showcases the expertise of Registered Dietitian-Nutritionists (RDNs) and Nutrition and Dietetics Technicians, Registered (NDTRs).
During this special month and long after, we should all strive to look “Beyond the Table” when thinking about our health and the environment. Choices we make daily, including what we are going to eat and drink, can make a big difference both now and in the future. Included below are a few suggestions that can help guide your efforts.
Go “Beyond the Table” with These Tips:
- Focus on following a healthy eating routine. Make an effort to enjoy a variety of foods from all groups (such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein, and dairy products). Include and embrace your favorite cultural foods and traditions, and feel encouraged to experiment with new recipes that use different ingredients or come from global cuisines. Be mindful of food choices when eating away from home.
- Stay nourished on any budget. Make a grocery list using the weekly circular and stick to it while shopping. Enjoy foods in various forms, including fresh, frozen, canned, and dried. Learn cooking, food preparation, and planning skills and strive to enjoy more homemade meals and snacks. Research community based resources such as SNAP, WIC, and local food banks.
- Eat with the environment in mind. Get creative with repurposing your leftovers in an effort to reduce food waste. Incorporate more plant-based meals and snacks. Put your green thumb to the test by growing your own herbs, vegetables, and/or fruits. Finally, purchase locally grown and in-season produce whenever possible. April marks the beginning of harvest season for many of our favorite produce items here in New Jersey. For more information on what’s available and when, visit https://findjerseyfresh.com/JerseyFresh/availability.
National Nutrition Month started in 1973 as National Nutrition Week. In response to a growing interest in nutrition, it became a month-long observance in 1980. Through the many years, many themes, and many changes in our eating patterns, RDNs remain the food and nutrition experts who specialize in helping people live healthier lifes. As always, if you or anyone you know has any nutrition related questions or concerns, or if you’re interested in exploring more ways to go “Beyond the Table” to reach your goals, please seek out an RDN in your area.
Blog adapted from www.eatright.org and contributed by Lauren Ordemann, MS, RDN
