For National Nutrition Month® 2016, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is encouraging everyone to “Savor the Flavor of Eating Right” by taking time to enjoy food traditions and appreciate the pleasures, great flavors and social experiences food adds to your life.
“Food nourishes your body and provides necessary fuel to help you thrive and fight disease,” says registered dietitian nutritionist and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Spokesperson Kristen Gradney. “Food is also a source of pleasure and enjoyment. ‘Savor the Flavor of Eating Right’ by taking time to enjoy healthy foods and all the happiness they bring to your life.”
Enjoy Food Traditions and Social Experiences. There is an obvious social component to food. Whether a nightly family dinner, special holiday occasion or social gathering, food often plays a central role.
“Research indicates that family meals promote healthier eating and strengthen family relationships,” Gradney says. “Prioritize family meals and enjoy the food traditions that accompany any type of social gathering.”
Appreciate Foods Pleasures and Flavors. Take time to appreciate the flavors, textures and overall eating experience. In today’s busy world, we often eat quickly and mindlessly. Instead, try following this tip to help you savor the flavor of your food: Eat slowly.
“Eat one bite at a time, and focus on the different flavors and textures,” Gradney says. “Stop and take time between bites. Eating slowly not only allows you to enjoy your food, but it can also help you eat less by giving your stomach time to tell your brain that you are full.”
Develop a Mindful Eating Pattern. How, when, why and where you eat are just as important as what you eat. Being a mindful eater can help you reset both your body and your mind and lead to an overall healthier lifestyle.
“Think about where you eat the majority of your meals,” Gradney says. “Many eat lunch at their desks or dinner in front of the television. Take a few minutes out of your busy schedule to find a nice place to mindfully eat instead of multitasking through your meals.”
Consult a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. “A healthy lifestyle is much more than choosing to eat more fruits and vegetables,” Gradney says. “It’s also essential to make informed food choices based on your individual health and nutrient needs. A registered dietitian nutritionist can educate you and guide your food choices while keeping your tastes and preferences in mind. RDNs are able to separate facts from fads and translate nutritional science into information you can use.”
Find a registered dietitian nutritionist in your area by visiting eatright.org.
The Academy’s website (eatright.org) includes helpful articles, recipes, videos and educational resources to spread the message of good nutrition and an overall healthy lifestyle for people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. Consumers are also encouraged to follow National Nutrition Month on the Academy’s social media channels including Facebook and Twitter using the #NationalNutritionMonth hashtag.
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The Academy is committed to improving the nation’s health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education and advocacy. Visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics at eatright.org.