by Kylie Coffey, Senior Services Dietetic Intern from Central Michigan University
National Nutrition Month, organized by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, is celebrated each March. This year the theme is “Celebrate a World of Flavors,” which encourages us to recognize a variety of flavors and cuisines from around the world. Throughout March, they have provided a variety of weekly nutrition challenges that aim to appreciate our individual goals, cultures and food preferences. Celebrate your favorite traditions and experience new ones during National Nutrition Month this year!
Week One: Eat a Variety of Nutritious Foods
Each person has a unique family history and traditions that influence the type of foods and dishes that we eat. We can still enjoy our favorite dishes and make them more nutritious by including foods from all food groups and incorporating them with each meal.
Week Two: See a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
In addition to celebrating National Nutrition Month, The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics celebrates Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day on March 9th! The role of an RDN is to provide you with personalized nutrition information that celebrates your unique heritage. Ask your doctor for a referral to a specialized RDN to help you achieve your specific nutrition goals. March Nutrition Presentations
Week Three: Plan your meals and snacks
Figuring out what to eat every day can be challenging. Planning meals ahead of time can take the stress out of not knowing what to make for meals and snacks. Plans can allow you to choose healthier meal options and simplify grocery shopping by preparing a list of the ingredients you need for that week. Additionally, it can increase meal variety and reduce the number of meals or snacks consumed away from home.
Week Four: Create tasty foods at home
Creating meals at home can be an opportunity to experiment with different foods and cooking techniques. It’s never too late to learn new cooking and meal preparation skills. Cooking can even improve the skills you already have. Once you have discovered foods and flavors you enjoy, you can create a culinary masterpiece. Incorporating new flavors and foods adds variety to your diet while experiencing cultures from around the world!
This March “Celebrate a World of Flavors” and explore new recipes that celebrate flavors from around the world.
About the Author: My name is Kylie Coffey, and I am a CMU Dietetic Intern. I am from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and love being outside appreciating the scenery that the UP has to offer year-round. When I’m not out adventuring, I spend my time with my dogs, Buddy and Frank. Additionally, I enjoy reading, working out/doing Yoga, listening to music, and eating! I consider myself somewhat of a foodie. After completing the internship, I plan to go back to the UP and take some time to study for the Registered Dietitian exam and find a job I am passionate about.
