Celebrate National Nutrition Month with ODNC
March is National Nutrition Month, and to mark the 50th anniversary of this annual health & wellness event, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has declared this year’s theme as “Fueling for the Future.” Each week will highlight a new topic related to sustainability and nourishment for every stage of life, which are elements consistent with the values that drive the work of ODNC and our local farmers. Join us in celebrating National Nutrition Month, and explore ways that the Oregon Dairy and Nutrition Council is bringing each weekly theme to life:
Eat with the Environment in Mind
Milk is a hyper-local product that’s always in season. The gallon you buy at your local market was produced on a farm in your community that prioritizes environmental stewardship and animal welfare. What’s more is that Oregon dairy farmers are making innovative strides to minimize their environmental impact daily, with a goal to be carbon-neutral by 2050. You can learn more about advancements in sustainable dairy farming here: Dairy Farmers are the Original Environmentalists.
See a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
Oregon Dairy and Nutrition Council is proud to work alongside Registered Dietitians, Nutrition Educators, Physicians, Pediatricians, and wellness thought leaders that promote the health and well-being of Oregon communities. With three RDNs on our staff, we continuously strive to provide nutrition education and leadership supported by science to advance the health of Oregonians.
Stay Nourished and Save Money
Dollar-for-dollar, milk and dairy products are among the most nutrient-dense and affordable foods on the planet. Moreover, their versatility in meal and recipe prep allows for peace-of-mind when planning your trip to the grocery store.
Whether savory or sweet, in breakfast or for an on-the-go snack, it’s easy to incorporate dairy every day. Products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are also fundamentally included as essential items in federal food assistance programs like WIC and SNAP. You can be confident that your budget is going the distance while providing nutrients to help you and your family be well.
Try prepping meals beforehand, to maximize whole food ingredients like milk and yogurt, and get the vitamins and nutrients your body needs throughout the day.
Eat a Variety of Foods from All Food Groups
When it comes to nutrition and well-being, milk and dairy products provide an important piece to a balanced and wholesome diet. Dairy provides a powerhouse of 13 essential nutrients, including 3 of the 4 nutrients of public health concern identified by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans due to low consumption. Incorporating dairy foods into a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, and protein is essential to nourishing a healthy and active life. And when it comes to delicious combinations for meals and snacks, the possibilities with dairy are endless! Add milk to a fruit smoothie, sprinkle cheese over veggies, or mix whole grain granola into your yogurt. For more inspirations on balancing your plate, head to https://www.myplate.gov/.
Make Tasty Foods at Home
Cooking doesn’t have to be a chore! Make it easy with simple recipes and help from family, friends, and loved ones. Dairy foods like milk, cheese and yogurt are ingredients that make meal prep easy!
Check out FoodHero.org for inspiration and use the search function to narrow your search based on ingredients and leftovers you have on hand.
This recipe for Brocco Poppers features cheddar cheese and broccoli wrapped into bite-sized pieces and is easy and fun to make with friends or family!
Through the sustainable and nutritious impact of dairy foods, ODNC and Oregon Dairy farmers are consistently working to Fuel for the Future to nourish the health of Oregon communities. Looking to get more involved for National Nutrition Month? Head to Eatright.org to explore their list of 50 Ideas that families, schools, workplaces, or local businesses can try to promote healthy eating!
Oregon Dairy and Nutrition Council 