The theme for National Nutrition Month, a registered trademark by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, is Food Connects Us. This theme helps us stay connected with our food.

Healthy eating strengthens connections by sharing meals, cooking together, and supporting each other’s nutrition goals, fostering both physical health and emotional bonds.

Here are some tips to help you make more informed choices in meal planning, shopping, and exercising so you can share with others:

Meal Planning

1. Go for Balance and Variety

   • Aim for a balanced and varied diet that includes a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This ensures you get a wide array of nutrients.

2. Practice Mindful Eating

   • Practice mindful eating by paying attention to hunger and fullness cues. Avoid distractions during meals, and savor the flavors and textures of your food.

3. Prep Ahead

   • Plan and prepare meals in advance to avoid the temptation of unhealthy, convenient options. Having nutritious options readily available makes it easier to stick to your health goals.

4. Use Smart Cooking Techniques

   • Choose healthier cooking methods like grilling, baking, steaming, or sautéing instead of frying. This helps retain the nutritional value of your foods.

Shopping

1. Shop the Perimeter

   • Focus on the perimeter of the grocery store where fresh produce, lean proteins, and dairy are typically located. This helps you avoid the more processed, less nutritious center aisles.

2. Read Labels

   • Take the time to read and understand food labels. Look for products with minimal additives, lower sugar content, and limited saturated and trans fats.

3. Stick to a List

   • Plan your grocery shopping in advance and create a list. This helps you stay focused, avoid impulse purchases, and make healthier choices.

4. Buy in Bulk

   • Purchase staple items in bulk, such as whole grains, legumes, and nuts. Buying in bulk can be cost-effective and reduces packaging waste.

Exercising

1. Practice Diverse Physical Activities

   • Include a variety of exercises in your routine to engage different muscle groups and prevent boredom. Mix cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises.

2. Set Realistic Goals

   • Set achievable and realistic fitness goals. This could be a certain number of steps per day, a specific amount of time for workouts, or a target for strength or endurance.

3. Incorporate Physical Activity into Daily Life

   • Find opportunities to move throughout the day, such as taking the stairs, walking during breaks, or doing quick home workouts. It all adds up!

4. Stay Hydrated

   • Hydration is crucial for overall health and exercise performance. Drink water before, during, and after your workouts.

General Lifestyle

1. Get Adequate Sleep

   • Ensure you get enough quality sleep. Lack of sleep can affect your food choices, energy levels, and overall well-being.

2. Manage Your Stress

   • Incorporate stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Chronic stress can impact both your eating habits and physical health.

3. Cultivate Social Connections

   • Cultivate positive social connections. Sharing meals or exercising with friends or family can provide motivation and support.

4. Make Regular Check-ins

   • Regularly assess your progress and make adjustments as needed. Celebrate achievements, no matter how small, and be willing to adapt your plan based on your evolving needs and goals.

By embracing the "Beyond the Table" theme, you're acknowledging that health is a holistic concept that involves various lifestyle factors. Making informed choices in meal planning, shopping, and exercising contributes to an overall healthier and more balanced lifestyle.