What is National Nutrition Month?
National Nutrition Month is an annual campaign celebrated every March in the United States, focusing on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. Organized by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the month-long observance aims to educate and encourage individuals and communities to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise.
History and Origin
National Nutrition Month originated in 1973 as “National Nutrition Week,” and due to its growing popularity and the public’s increasing interest in nutrition, it expanded to a month-long celebration in 1980. The campaign was created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly the American Dietetic Association) to promote nutrition education and to help people understand the impact of their food choices on their overall health.
Who Celebrates National Nutrition Month?
- Registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) and nutrition professionals: Offer workshops, seminars, and consultations to educate the public about nutrition and healthy eating.
- Schools and educational institutions: Incorporate nutrition education into their curriculum and host events promoting healthy eating habits among students.
- Healthcare organizations and wellness groups: Organize health fairs, cooking demonstrations, and challenges to encourage a balanced diet and physical activity.
- The general public: Individuals and families take this opportunity to learn more about nutrition, try new healthy recipes, and adopt healthier lifestyle choices.
Slogans and Themes
Each year, National Nutrition Month is celebrated with a theme chosen by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Themes like “Eat Right, Bite by Bite” and “Personalize Your Plate” emphasize the importance of making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits that are tailored to individual needs and preferences.
Colors, Symbols, and Patterns
- Colors: Green, representing health and vitality, along with a palette of colors reflecting a variety of fruits and vegetables.
- Symbols: Images of balanced plates, fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy are used to symbolize a healthy diet. The logo of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is also prominent.
- Patterns: Patterns are not specifically associated with National Nutrition Month, but promotional materials often feature vibrant images of healthy foods and active lifestyles.
Most Used Hashtags
- #NationalNutritionMonth
- #EatRight
- #HealthyEating
- #NutritionEducation
- #PersonalizeYourPlate
How to Celebrate
- Consult a registered dietitian nutritionist: Take the opportunity to get personalized nutrition advice tailored to your health needs and goals.
- Participate in nutrition education events: Attend workshops, cooking demonstrations, and webinars to learn more about healthy eating.
- Challenge yourself and others: Set personal health goals or organize challenges at work or with friends to encourage eating more fruits and vegetables, drinking more water, or being more physically active.
- Share knowledge and experiences: Use social media to share healthy recipes, nutrition tips, and your progress towards a healthier lifestyle using National Nutrition Month hashtags.
National Nutrition Month is a reminder of the importance of making informed food choices and developing healthy eating and physical activity habits. It’s a time to focus on nutrition education and to commit to a healthier lifestyle for yourself and your community.