March kicks off National Nutrition Month®, an annual campaign launched in 1973 by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to encourage informed food choices and healthier lifestyles. This month is about building sustainable habits that nourish your body, boost your energy, and help prevent disease now and into the future.
Why Nutrition Matters
It’s eye‑opening how much modern diets lean on ultra‑processed foods. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 55 % of calories consumed by Americans age 1 and older come from ultra‑processed foods like fast foods, sweetened drinks, and packaged snacks. Children and teens consume even more, with nearly 62 % of their calories from these foods.
At the same time, many people fall short on vital foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are key to balanced nutrition and chronic disease prevention. The World Health Organization highlights that diets rich in minimally processed foods and low in added sugar and sodium are foundational to long‑term health.
5 Simple Tips to Eat Healthier
Here are practical steps you can start today to eat better, without turning your life upside down:
1. Build Balanced Meals
Use a simple plate model: half fruits and veggies, one quarter lean protein, one quarter whole grains. This helps ensure you get a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber each day.
2. Prep Ahead & Shop Smart
Planning meals and snacks ahead of time makes it easier to stick to healthy choices and resist impulse eating. Make a grocery list focused on whole foods, such as produce, beans, nuts, lean meats, and whole grains.
3. Hydrate Like a Habit
Choose water or unsweetened beverages most of the time. Staying hydrated supports digestion, mood, and energy levels.
4. Cook More at Home
Preparing meals yourself gives you control over ingredients, portions, and sodium content, helping reduce reliance on processed foods.
5. Mindful Eating + Movement
Slow down at meals, savor flavors, and pay attention to hunger vs. fullness. Pairing better eating with physical activity helps with weight management and overall well‑being.
Nutrition isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress and making choices that support your health day by day. As you celebrate National Nutrition Month this March, take small steps, learn what works for your lifestyle, and invest in eating patterns that fuel your best life. Your body, and future self, will thank you.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call (915) 521-7979 today to schedule an appointment, or visit umcelpaso.org to learn more.
