For months, I have been looking for a good nutritional plan/diet I can follow that would help me change my poor eating habits; however, choosing one has not been easy.

Even after months of researching different plans, I am more confused by the nutritional information I have read on the Internet.

As I still have not found one that fits all my specific nutritional goals, I opted to begin eating healthy, nutritious foods in March.

And, what better timing, as March is National Nutrition Month.

According to eatright.org, “National Nutrition Month is an annual nutrition education and information campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

“The campaign, celebrated each year during the month of March, focuses on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits.”

The website further states, “In 1980, in response to a growing public interest in nutrition, the weeklong (National Nutrition Week initiated in March 1973) celebration expanded to become a monthlong observance.”

To some, healthy eating means going vegan - giving up all meat, fish, dairy and eggs and eating mostly a vegetarian diet.

To others, it means adding more fruits, vegetables and whole grains to their diet and cutting out all junk food and sweets.

Whichever way an individual chooses, eating healthy, nutritious foods not only fuels the body with the nutrients it needs, but it also helps everyone, from children to senior citizens, function better.

According to healthline.com, “Eating a nutritious diet during pregnancy is linked to good fetal brain development and a healthy birth weight and reduces the risk of many birth defects.

“A balanced diet will also reduce the risks of anemia, as well as other unpleasant pregnancy symptoms such as fatigue and morning sickness. Good nutrition is thought to help balance mood swings, and it may improve labor and delivery as well.”

Healthline.com also states, “Eating a well-balanced diet is an important part of staying healthy as you age.

“It can help you maintain a healthy weight, stay energized and get the nutrients you need. It also lowers your risk of developing chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.”

Healthy eating and healthy living are not just about eating more fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and dairy, but about eating sensibly and in moderation and being physically active.

To help prevent or eliminate serious health issues as we age, we need to focus on eating nutritious and healthy meals every day - not just in March - to ensure a healthy and long life.

To learn more about National Nutrition Month or healthy nutritious eating tips, visit eatright.org.

Susan Bryant

editorial assistant

Parkland Press

Northwestern Press