The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ National Nutrition Month campaign invites everyone to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits. This year's theme is Beyond the Table, which addresses food production and distribution, navigating grocery stores and farmers markets, and sustainability efforts like decreasing food waste.
Most people in the United States don’t eat a healthy diet and consume too much sodium,
saturated fat, and sugar, increasing their risk of chronic diseases. Fewer than 1 in 10 adolescents and adults eat enough fruits or vegetables. In addition, 20% of young people aged 2 to 19 years and 42% of adults have obesity, which can put them at risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.
Lack of access to these nutritious foods may have a greater impact on racial and ethnic minority communities, residents of low-income communities, and those living in rural areas, especially older adults.
Along with eating well, regular physical activity improves overall health and prevents diseases. Check out these 50 Ideas to Get Involved in National Nutrition Month and physical activity guidelines from the HHS Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion’s Move Your Way® campaign and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.