Celebrating National Nutrition Month

March is National Nutrition Month! National Nutrition Month (NNM) is a campaign that invites everyone to develop healthy eating habits. But, what does “healthy” mean? This word can be a trigger to some who struggle with an eating disorder. It can also mean so many different things to different people. In the eating disorder recovery community, “healthy” means “balanced”. Balance looks like having several food groups at a meal. Food groups include grains, proteins, fats, fruits, vegetables, and dairy. Within those food groups, All Foods Fit. So, “healthy” is not about one particular food or nutrient, but rather a combination of many. So “healthy” can look like a cheeseburger and fries (despite what diet culture may tell you), or grilled chicken with salad and rice. Both of these meals are balanced, which is key.

This year’s theme for NNM is “Celebrate a World of Flavors”, which showcases flavors from around the world. We are all unique with different bodies, goals, backgrounds, and tastes. (eatright.org) It can be fun to explore new foods, especially from cultures outside of our own, and incorporate them into meals at home. Try these easy menu ideas that can increase variety and some global cuisine:

·       Chinese stir-fry with chicken, veggies of your choice, and rice

·       Italian pasta of your choice with marinara or Alfredo sauce (for a quick and easy protein, add frozen meatballs)

·       Greek pita sandwich with chicken or steak, cucumber and tomato, feta cheese, and tzatziki sauce

·       Mexican quesadilla with cheese and beans of your choice on a flour tortilla, topped with salsa and sour cream

Including a balance of food groups throughout the day fuels our bodies for all the work that it does in 24 hours. From brain function to the number of breaths we take, it all requires energy. We give our bodies energy in the form of calories, which come from food. And our bodies need that energy every 3-5 hours. The primary and preferred source of energy comes from carbohydrates. This nutrient is found in most food groups (grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy), is needed most of all the nutrients, and is the fuel source for the brain. By including these food groups throughout the day, your body and brain will function at its best. By aiming for variety and including some global cuisine, providing this energy to your body can be actually be fun!

If you’re looking for more guidance on nutrition or need help with meal planning, disordered eating habits, or other health related concerns, reach out to schedule a nutrition consultation with a registered dietitian.

Contributed by Courtney Stoddard, MS, RD, LDN, CEDRD, Director of Outpatient Services for Focus Treatment Centers, Chattanooga, Tennessee

 

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