March Is National Nutrition Month

Updated September 2020. 

Did you know March is National Nutrition Month? Trying to eat healthy isn't always easy and sometimes the same old meals can feel boring or uninteresting. Follow these tips to bring both tasty and nutritious meals to the table this month, and all year long. 

• Be adventurous and try a new recipe. There are millions of recipe websites out there. Find a healthy variation for a type of food you love such as crispy baked chicken instead of fried chicken.
• Try not to deprive yourself. Focus on healthy food you enjoy rather than focusing on unhealthy foods that you shouldn’t have. Keep in mind that it's all about balance so it's okay to eat the foods you love, as long as its in moderation.
• Turn a salad into a wholesome meal by adding crunch and color. Roasted nuts or seeds, shredded purple cabbage, hard-boiled eggs, beans, dried fruit, and cheese cubes all help make a typical salad tasty and exciting.
• Spice things up! Have fun with different spices and use seasonings for variety. Spices can make a whole meal feel new again.
• Be mindful. Instead of eating on the go or while you watch TV, sit down at the table and savor your meal by eating slowly and enjoying each bite. It’s better for digestion and you may find that you’re less likely to go back for seconds! It's also nice to eat with someone else and enjoy the conversation.
• Keep it real. A surefire way to create a healthy meal that is loaded with flavor is to use whole, fresh ingredients rather than prepackaged foods. Packaged foods are typically filled with sodium.
• Remember, food is fuel. Take note of how you feel after eating certain foods so you can pick foods that energize you and leave you feeling your best.

If you're looking for a personalized meal plan, or simply need some expert advice to reach your healthy eating goals, registered dietitians on Amwell are here to help. Schedule a visit to talk to a nutritionist — from your own kitchen.