By Robin Stoloff
Health & Wellness
This March, we are celebrating National Nutrition Month with the theme, “Food Connects Us.” This theme invites us to a culinary adventure where every bite nourishes us with health and unity. It highlights food’s power in bringing us together across cultures, generations and communities.
Food is more than just fuel; it is shared traditions, laughter-filled gatherings and memories that linger long after the last meal. At the heart of this delicious connection? Vibrant, nutritious fruits and vegetables, featured in cultural dishes worldwide.
Bursting with vitamins, minerals and fiber, fruits and vegetables improve heart health, support digestion and boost our energy. Plus, they can lower the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and even some cancers. Yet, here is the startling truth: a whopping 90% of Americans do not get the recommended daily amount, which is two cups of fruit and three cups of veggies. That means most of us are missing out on essential nutrients.
Let’s face it, life moves fast and sometimes grabbing a bag of chips is easier than chopping up a salad. Picky eating habits, busy schedules and the convenience of fast food make it challenging to fill our plates with enough produce. Here is the good news: eating more fruit and vegetables can be fun, flavorful and surprisingly easy.
Simple and delicious ways to eat more produce: Want to add more fruits and veggies to your diet? Try these easy and creative ideas:
Smoothie superstars: Kickstart your mornings with a blast of goodness. Blend frozen bananas, juicy berries and a handful of spinach (seriously, you won’t taste it!) with a splash of almond milk. Add a scoop of protein for a fast, nutritious breakfast.
Crunch time creativity: Ditch the chips and grab a vibrant mix of baby carrots, crisp cucumber slices and creamy hummus. Your taste buds and your tummy will thank you.
Mealtime magic: Transform your ordinary meals into extraordinary delights. Toss extra veggies into your pasta sauce, soups and sandwiches. Add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to omelets and spinach to wraps. Challenge yourself to include fruits or vegetables in every meal.
Meatless Monday marvels: Unleash your culinary creativity and experiment with plant-based meals. Think roasted cauliflower tacos, vegetable stir-fry, zucchini noodle bowls, avocado toast, stuffed bell peppers, or vegetable bean soup.
Farmers market favorites: Explore a wealth of seasonal, nutrient-rich delights. Farmers markets are bursting with fresh, tasty produce that boost our health and support local growers.
Flavorful family fun: Turn mealtimes into playful adventures. Create veggie faces on plates, make fruit skewers look like magic wands and have a “taste the rainbow” challenge. Let kids pick out colorful produce at the grocery store and join in the cooking fun. These small, joyful efforts can inspire lifelong healthy eating habits.
While we strive to eat healthier meals, food is not just about nutrients. It’s also about connection. This year’s “Food Connects Us” theme reminds us that meals bond us, whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday feast, or a simple gathering with friends. Cooking and enjoying meals together are universal experiences that bridge cultures, strengthen relationships and create a sense of belonging and togetherness.
Many of us have fond memories of cooking with loved ones, passing down favorite recipes and celebrating holidays with special dishes. Keeping these traditions alive is a meaningful way to stay connected. In addition to our own traditions, experiencing culinary flavors from various cultures can enhance our palate and increase our appreciation for global cuisines.
Explore international favorites such as Mediterranean hummus, Italian caprese salad, Japanese teriyaki chicken, or Spanish paella. In addition, potlucks, dinner parties and neighborhood or family cookouts create opportunities for social connection. Sharing food fosters friendships, encourages conversation and strengthens family and community bonds.
Choosing healthy, fresh foods not only benefits us; it also supports a more sustainable and connected world. Select fresh, in-season produce to reduce the carbon footprint of food transportation and ensure that we get the most flavorful, nutrient-rich options.
Purchase from local growers to support local farms, strengthen small businesses and reduce reliance on long-haul food transportation. As the weather gets warmer and local farmers markets spring up throughout our area, we can take advantage of the wonderful fresh produce available in our community. In addition to buying fresh local foods, we can reduce food waste by planning our meals and creatively using leftovers.
The best part of eating healthier is that we don’t have to overhaul our entire diet overnight. Making small changes, such as including an extra serving of vegetables in our meals or replacing a sugary snack with fresh fruit, can have a significant impact on our health.
So, this National Nutrition Month, embrace the theme “Food Connects Us.” Let’s enjoy nutritious meals with loved ones, explore new flavors and make choices that nourish our body and our community.
Food not only sustains us; it unites us.
Robin is a former television reporter for NBC News 40. She currently hosts a podcast and radio program called Living Well with Robin Stoloff. It airs Sundays at 10 AM on Lite 96.9. You can email Robin at livingwellwithrobin@gmail.com
