Singing River Health System Celebrates National Nutrition Month

In recognition of National Nutrition Month®, celebrated each March, Singing River Health System dietitians have organized several events and activities to increase awareness of good nutrition.

On Wednesday, March 23, both Ocean Springs and Singing River Hospital Cafeterias will feature a South American Themed Meal from 11am to 1:30pm. The meal will include fish tacos, quinoa, avocado salad, grilled vegetables and a chocolate mousse.

On Thursday, March 31, there will be a seasoning tasting from 11am-1pm at both hospital cafeterias to sample different seasonings and learn about the alternative seasoning choices.

“Our goal at Singing River Health System is to educate the community on the importance of making informed choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits,” said Celeste Durham, Clinical Nutritional Manager.” This year we are hoping to find the fun of eating again without the negativity or pressure of counting calories or fat. We want to promote eating all foods in moderation, branching out of your comfort zone and trying new foods.”

National Nutrition Month® 2016 Key Messages

National Nutrition Month is a nutrition education and information campaign created annually in March by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits.

The theme for 2016 is “Savor the Flavor of Eating Right,” which encourages everyone to take time to enjoy food traditions and appreciate the pleasures, great flavors and social experiences food can add to our lives.

Key Messages

  1. How, when, why and where we eat are just as important as what we eat. Making sure to enjoy the sight, sounds, memories and interactions associated with eating are essential to developing an overall healthy eating plan.
  2. Develop a mindful eating pattern that includes nutritious and flavorful foods, while also taking the time to enjoy everything that a healthful and tasty meal brings with it. That’s the best way to savor the flavor of eating right!
  3. It is possible to enjoy the taste and flavor of food while still maintaining a healthy diet. Take time to enjoy food traditions and find creative, healthful and nutritious ways to add flavor to food. An eating pattern based on the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines and MyPlate recommendations can accommodate the food preferences, cultural tradition and customs of many diverse groups.
  4. A registered dietitian nutritionist can provide sound, easy-to-follow personalized nutrition advice to meet your lifestyle, preferences and health-related needs.

For more information about National Nutrition Month, visit www.eatright.org.