March 1-31
National Nutrition Month
An awareness observance in March promoting nutrition education and healthy eating habits.
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Institutional Initiative
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics launched National Nutrition Week in 1973 to educate the public on nutrition and informed food choices, later expanding it to a month-long observance in 1980.
Introduction
It's time to get healthy and make good food choices as we celebrate National Nutrition Month on March 1! This yearly event, established by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in 1973, is a great reminder that all of us should be more mindful of our diets. Making smart food choices can help with weight management, reduce risks for illnesses and diseases, improve moods and energy levels, and even increase lifespan. So get ready to take your diet to the next level this National Nutrition Month – you'll be glad you did!
National Nutrition Month Timeline
How to Celebrate National Nutrition Month
1
Cook a healthy meal
Try a new healthy recipe and enjoy the delicious flavor of nutritious ingredients. Look up some recipes online or find a cookbook that features healthy meals.
2
Grow your own food
Start your own vegetable garden or start a compost heap to give back to the earth. This is a great way to get fresh, organic produce right in your own backyard.
3
Eat out healthy
Check out local restaurants that offer healthy options, or try cooking at home with locally sourced ingredients. Eating out can be just as nutritious as eating at home.
4
Educate yourself on nutrition
Read books, magazines, or online articles about nutrition and healthy eating habits. Learning about nutrition will help you make better decisions when it comes to food.
5
Make a healthy snack
Pack yourself a nutritious snack for work or school that is sure to keep you full and energized throughout the day. Try making homemade trail mix with nuts, dried fruit, and dark chocolate chips.
Why National Nutrition Month is Important
Nutrition has a significant impact on overall health
The food we consume every day has an enormous impact on our overall health. Eating a balanced and nutritious diet may help reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. A healthy and well-rounded diet can also provide us with the nutrients needed to meet our daily energy needs, boost immunity, and improve physical performance.
Good nutrition helps protect against disease
Adequate intake of vitamins and minerals is essential for protecting against various illnesses and diseases. For example, consuming foods rich in vitamin C can help to boost immunity and ward off colds, while increasing your intake of certain B vitamins may help to fight fatigue and depression. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also reduce the risk of cancer.
Nutrition helps maintain a healthy weight
Eating a balanced and nutritious diet is key for controlling your weight. Consuming too many calories or unhealthy fats can lead to weight gain, while eating fewer calories than you need may cause you to lose weight unintentionally. Eating the right amount of good quality food can help you keep your energy levels up while avoiding unnecessary excess calorie intake.
Holiday Dates
| Year | Dates | Days |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Wednesday to Friday | |
| 2024 | Friday to Sunday | |
| 2025 | Saturday to Monday | |
| 2026 | Sunday to Tuesday | |
| 2027 | Monday to Wednesday |
