
March is National Nutrition Month®! The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics put together a whole list of ways you can get involved in March. Our Development Director, Arianne, wanted to share a few with you with examples of how her family is incorporating them into their meal planning.
Try new fruits and vegetables this month!
The next time you’re at the grocery store, pick out a fruit or vegetable you’ve never tried and taste test it with your family. Sometimes at Meijer, we’ll pick up an exotic fruit or vegetable to taste for fun. We’ve tried starfruit, dragon fruit and jackfruit by doing this. Each month in our Food Pantry we feature a different food item. For March, we’re highlighting carrots, as well as this soup recipe!
Get your family (or friends) involved in meal planning. Ask for their ideas!
If your family is stumped, asking friends for their favorite meal on Social Media is a great way to get new recipes, or searching on Pinterest.
Limit your TV/screen time (or take breaks) and incorporate physical activity.
Watch an episode or two of your favorite show, and take a break to clean up the kitchen, take a walk around the block, or play catch for a few minutes with your kids. That extra bit of exercise in the day helps my whole family relax, unwind and fall asleep faster.
Try to stay off screentime during mealtime – including phones, computers, TV, tablets, etc.
Try sitting at the table for your meals and keep all electronic devices out of the room. It’ll help you focus on your meal, and conversations with your family. It’s a great opportunity to share the funny things you read on your phone, or bring up a fun conversation for discussion.
Try more meals without meat.
At Flat River Outreach Ministries our Food Pantry and a number of our food programs we receive a large amount of meatless protein options – including beans, peas and lentils. Our Healthy Food Program Coordinator, Kelly, often highlights meatless recipes in the Food Pantry and offers samples to try. One of our favorite meatless options is a black bean and corn burrito. Check out this Gimme Delicious recipe!
Get your whole family involved in cooking. There’s room for everyone!
My favorite memories of my mom are around meal preparation, she always encouraged us to be in the kitchen with us. And although it can take a lot of extra time, as an adult, I try to bring my 2-year-old to help make dinner. He especially loves making pizza with us and counts while he puts pepperoni and cheese on the pizza.
Try a new spice or flavor to your meal.
Be inspired at the grocery store. Seek out new spices that sound interesting and find a recipe to use it in. When you travel, try to recreate a dish you loved on your trip. My family found a love for falafel and Mediterranean food while on a trip to Israel, and started making them when we realized how easy they were to recreate at home!
There are way more ideas and suggestions on Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, CLICK HERE to read the rest of them.