March is Nutrition Month

Are you eating in a way that helps your health? Eating is not just something you do to satisfy hunger. Food is meant for so much more.

Food is intended to provide us with nutrients and energy. It's also meant to benefit our health and help prevent chronic disease.

Practice good health by eating for purpose, as well as pleasure. Fill your diet with foods from the five food groups:

• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Grains
• Protein
• Dairy

Eliminate, or cut back on foods that are high in salt, and have added sugar and saturated fat.

Enjoy a variety of foods. Treat yourself to something you have never had. Try visiting your local farmers market for seasonal options. Maybe consider starting your own vegetable garden. This is a great way to start teaching kids where food comes from. Find out for yourself how different foods affect your health. Then, talk about this with your family.

Eat with others. Cook together. Then, sit down and share your creations over conversation. Before you go to the grocery store, take time to plan meals and lunches. This can save you both time and money.

For more info about the five food groups and good nutrition, visit choosemyplate.gov.