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Nutrition and Food Services

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National Nutrition Month®

Vegetables and workout equipment

Each year during March, we celebrate National Nutrition Month® by promoting the importance of making informed food choices while developing both healthier eating and physical activity habits. National Nutrition Month® serves as an opportunity to remind the public and the media that Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDNs) and Nutrition and Dietetics Technicians Registered (NDTRs) are the most valuable and credible sources of timely and scientifically based food and nutrition information.

Learn more about National Nutrition Month®: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics 

This year, the National Nutrition Month® theme is “Discover the Power of Nutrition.” Here are some ideas to consider for optimal health:

1) Creating Balanced Meals and Snacks

  • Meal planning may be less stressful and could help manage your food budget.
  • Creating a shopping list and stocking up on essentials when they are on sale at the store.
  • Aim to eat a variety of foods throughout the week to help stay healthy and protect against chronic diseases.
  • Get inspired and try this month's featured recipe: Berry Vanilla Overnight Oats.

2) Physical activity

  • Physical activity may help reduce the risk and manage chronic diseases while also strengthening muscles, improving sleep and promoting weight management.
  • Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity weekly, but always check with your medical provider prior to starting an exercise plan.
  • To challenge your muscles through mind-body practices, consider VA Whole Health videos or nutrition exercise for beginners.

3) Hydration

  • Water is essential to keep organs working efficiently and can improve cognitive function, skin health, and overall mood.
  • Other healthful beverage options include low-fat or fat-free milk or dairy alternatives, homemade smoothies, unsweetened beverages, sparkling water or make infused water.

"Discover the Power of Nutrition" by eating a balanced diet, being physically active and staying hydrated. To assist you with reaching your health goals, contact a VA Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at your facility to learn more. Read more about how the VA is collaborating to celebrate National Nutrition Month® this March

Additional Resources:
Healthy Teaching Kitchen Program
Nutrition Health Topics 
MOVE Weight Management Program
Whole Health Program
Fresh Focus Podcast
Recipes and Cookbooks

chia seed bowl with fruit

In 2026, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics celebrates Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) Day on Wednesday, March 11th and Nutrition and Dietetics Technician Registered (NDTR) Day on Thursday, March 12th. As the nation's food and nutrition experts, RDNs and NDTRs are committed to improving the health of their patients, families, and communities by providing credible evidence-based research on food and nutrition information to the public and media.

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