‘Celebrate a World of Flavors’ During National Nutrition Month, as Nicole Avena Shares Tips for Staying Healthy This Season

Annual Nutrition Month returns, allowing many to learn and develop healthful eating and physical activity habits.

The seasons are changing, but one thing that should never change is the importance of keeping a healthy and balanced lifestyle. National Nutrition Month, an annual campaign that runs throughout the month of March, is a chance to reset eating habits and improve the quality of diets and lifestyles. In honor of National Nutrition Month, Dr. Nicole Avena, Ph.D., nutrition expert and author of “Why Diets Fail,” shares some of the best tips and tricks for building a healthy lifestyle.

“It is so important that we take care of our bodies on a daily basis, and that starts with nutrition,” said Dr. Avena. “Nutrition has always been a passion of mine, and I’m constantly looking for ways to share this excitement and interest with others. There are simple changes we can make in our day-to-day lives, to improve our overall health and nutrition intake.”

• Eat your fruits and veggies. It’s a cliché tip that many individuals have heard from their parents from a very young age. But it’s true. Each day you should strive to have at least a handful of both fruits and vegetables. Try finding foods that are high in antioxidants like blueberries, strawberries, and kale. In light of this year’s theme, ‘Celebrate a World of Flavors,’ go outside your comfort zone and try a new recipe or food from a different country. It might become a new favorite!
• Daily vitamin intake. In addition to a healthy and balanced diet, it’s important to cover all your bases when it comes to daily vitamins. Each person’s dietary needs will vary slightly. While most people can get enough from diet alone, others may need to take a supplement, and nowadays, there are many vitamin options for men and women of all ages. For men, try vitafusion™ Men’s multivitamin, and for women, try vitafusion™ Women’s multivitamin, both easy to take chewable gummy supplements that include the necessary vitamins and minerals to stay on track. With the weather so unpredictable this season, I also recommend having a cold shortening product on hand that contains zinc, like Zicam RapidMelts, that can help get rid of a cold quicker when taken at the first sign of symptoms. Taking vitamins is a simple yet often overlooked habit for maintaining proper health. If you need an extra reminder, set a daily alarm to ensure you get your necessary vitamin intake.
• Water is your friend. Staying hydrated is essential for your overall health. Not only does water help increase your energy levels and flush out toxins, but it also helps your body maintain regularity and improves your skin complexion. It can be easy to forget to drink water throughout the day, so keep a water bottle at your desk or area where you spend most of your time. This will serve as a constant reminder to stay hydrated.
• Spice up your life. This month, try incorporating more herbs and spices into your diet and ‘Celebrate a World of Flavors.’ Herbs and spices allow you to season food using less salt and sugar while imparting health benefits. Fresh ginger, basil, rosemary, and mint are all excellent additions to many foods and recipes widely consumed around the world. In celebration of flavor, I challenge you to try a spice you have never tried before.
• Stay active. Being active doesn’t necessarily mean going to the gym seven days a week; it can be as simple as leaving the house to get some fresh air. Now that spring is just around the corner, it’s easier to get outside and enjoy the weather. Allocate 30 minutes of your day to being active, whether that’s going for a run or walking to a nearby store. Your body and mind will thank you.

“Health is a priority, no matter the age, gender, or ethnicity; we are all human. National Nutrition Month is a great reminder for everyone, including me, to focus on ways to stay healthy. Even if you only implement one or two of these tips, you’re doing your body a huge favor,” added Avena.

Nicole Avena, Ph.D., is a research neuroscientist and Author of “Why Diets Fail” Her 'wellness series' is for those wanting to improve eating behaviors & nutrition.

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