Put Your Best Fork Forward

Each bite counts! March is National Nutrition Month®, which is a great way to kick start the rest of the year. Every year the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics picks a new theme for National Nutrition Month and, you guessed it, this year’s theme is “put your best fork forward.”  What does this mean? This is a reminder that by making small changes in our food choices, we can truly make a positive impact on our health! Taking small steps, or small bites, towards a healthier life will make a difference over time. 

What does “putting your best fork forward” mean to you? This could be anything from trying a new vegetable each week to preparing more meals at home or even adding a 20-minute walk to your day.

---

Check out these “small bites” and help us celebrate National Nutrition Month!
​

Adjust your take-out
​Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be picky when eating out or ordering in. Next time you order food or eat out:

• Request that your meal be cooked with less oil
• Ask for half the sauce or sauce on the side
• Choose steamed over fried
• Ask for double the veggies (lower in calories, higher in fiber and nutrients)

---

​Keep cut-up vegetables in the fridge
Many times the reason for choosing a less nutritious option is convenience. It’s pretty easy to grab a sugary snack bar and go! Pick a day of the week and plan on chopping up a large container or bag of vegetables to munch on during the week. You can even portion them out into servings for each day. Don't want to spend time chopping? Look for pre-chopped veggies and baby carrots! ​
​

---

Rethink your (coffee) drink 
When ordering your morning beverage, it’s easy to load on the calories without realizing it!

• Try downsizing your drink – instead of a grande (16 oz), try a tall (12 oz) or a short (8 oz)
• Chose low-fat or fat-free milk instead of whole milk
• Skip the toppings (whipped cream, caramel, chocolate)
• Cut the syrup in half
• Add flavor with spices like cinnamon and cocoa powder

---

​Enjoy your activity
Do you dread going to the gym? Picking a physical activity that you enjoy is so important! You are much more likely to get regular exercise and stick with it if it’s something you enjoy.
​ ​

---

Try a new recipe
Restaurant foods are generally high in fat, sodium, and sugar. Cooking from home is a great way to make healthier choices and create nutritious meals! Trying new recipes is a fun way to keep home cooking interesting and delicious. Check out magazines, blogs, and websites for recipes inspiration! These are a few favorites:

• Cooking Light
• Eating Well
• Food and Nutrition

---

Let's keep it going! Although March is nearing an end, let's celebrate year-round! Keep up the good work! 

​~Leah, Dietetic Intern