Discover the Power of Nutrition - National Nutrition Month 2026
March is National Nutrition Month, making it a great time to think about how the food you eat helps you stay healthy and strong.
Eating a healthy diet can help you manage your weight, boost your energy, and support your mental health. It's also important for growth and development, especially during childhood and adolescence. A healthy diet may even help prevent diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer.
Tips for a healthy diet
- Eat a variety of whole foods, like:
- Fruits: apples, bananas, berries
- Vegetables: broccoli, carrots, leafy greens
- Whole grains: brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread
- Lean proteins: fish, eggs, chicken, beans
- Healthy fats: nuts, seeds, avocado, olive oil
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Limit processed foods:
- Try to avoid processed and packaged foods with a high amount of added sugar or sodium and saturated fats.
- Don't try fad diets:
- Choose healthy foods from food groups. Avoid diets that are too restrictive
- Consult a health care professional:
- If you have specific dietary needs or concerns, talk to a registered dietitian or health care professional.
Eating healthy on a limited budget
- Shop for produce when it's in season
- Check sales and coupons
- Find local farmer's markets
- Buy private label store brands
- Plan meals that use affordable ingredients
Food safety tips
- Wash: Hands, dishes, utensils, countertops, and sinks
- Separate: Raw and ready-to-eat foods and tools
- Chill: Perishable foods, like milk, meats and eggs
- Cook: Check recommended temperatures to prevents foodborne illness
Have a question?
Register for our webinar Ask the Dietitian:
Additional Resources: Eatright.org ; CDC.gov