March is National Nutrition Month®

Whether it’s starting the day off right with a healthy breakfast or fueling before an athletic event, the foods you choose can make a real difference. Preparing your foods to go further, by planning meals and snacks in advance can also help to reduce food loss and waste.

March is National Nutrition Month® and this year’s theme, Go Further with Food, encourages us to achieve the many benefits of healthy eating habits and to find ways to cut back on food waste. Learning how to manage food resources at home will help you “Go Further with Food”, while saving nutrients and money.

Ways to Go Further with Food:

• Include a variety of healthful foods from all of the food groups on a regular basis.
• Consider the foods you have on hand before buying more at the store.
• Buy only the amount that can be eaten on frozen within a few days and plan ways to use leftovers later in the week.
• Be mindful of portion sizes. Eat and drink the amount that’s right for you, as MyPlate encourages us to do.
• Use good food safety practices.
• Find activities that you enjoy and be physically active most days of the week.

For more information about the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and to find the “National Nutrition Month® Celebration Toolkit” visit www.eatright.org for tip sheets and handouts, videos, games, and other promotional tools in English and Spanish.

How can DHD#10 help you and your family Go Further with Food?

WIC is a nutritional food program that helps participants eat well and stay healthy.  While it is named for women, infants, and children, others such as adoptive parents, fathers, grandparents, other family members, foster parents and some non-traditional custodial situations may also be eligible to receive WIC benefits for infants in their care.

Those who qualify receive a WIC Bridge Card used for purchasing healthy foods such as milk, 100% juice, eggs, cheese, cereal, peanut butter, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grain breads or tortillas, dry or canned beans or peas, baby foods, infant formulas, and soy milk.  breastfeeding moms can also purchase canned tuna or salmon.  In addition to providing food, WIC offers tips and advice to help feed your family in a healthy way.

Find out if you are eligible for WIC here.  Already a WIC client? Click here.