March is National Nutrition Month!

National Nutrition Month was created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (previously know as the American Dietetic Association). It is an annual campaign that was developed to promote nutrition education and focuses people’s attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing healthy eating patterns as well as physical activity habits. This year the theme is “Get your Plate in Shape.”

Tips for getting your plate in shape from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

FOCUS ON YOUR FOOD 

TVs off! Take a time-out from multi-tasking and sit down to enjoy your meal, sans distractions. Eating while doing other things may lead to consuming more than you think.

DOWNSIZE YOUR DISHES

In this case, bigger is not better. Avoid oversized portions by using a smaller plate, bowl and glass.

TAKE YOUR TIME

Eating slowly helps you eat only what your body needs to feel satisfied. Stop before you feel full or stuffed. It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to get the message that your body is not hungry.

MONITOR PORTION SIZES

Improve your eating habits and health is by monitoring your portion sizes. You can still enjoy your food — but eat less.

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Nutritionist Christine Clark works with Dining Services to provide you with tips and techniques to stay healthy during your time at Northeastern. If you have any further questions about this or any other nutrition or diet topic, such as food allergies or weight gain/loss, please contact her at christine.clark2@compass-usa.com.

Information provided from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics http://www.eatright.org/NNM/content.aspx?id=7832