March is National Nutrition Month and the theme is "Eat Right with Color" according to the American Dietetic Association. The idea is to eat a rainbow of colors by including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein and dairy products each day. Shopping tips to "Eat Right with Color" include: 

·         Dark green vegetables- e.g. broccoli, spinach and collard greens

·         Orange vegetables- e.g. butternut squash, carrots and sweet potatoes

·         Bright fruits- e.g. strawberries, plums, apples and kiwi

·         Whole grains- e.g. oatmeal, brown rice and whole wheat pasta/ breads

·         Lean protein- e.g. skinless chicken, fish, lean cuts of beef and pork

·         Dairy - e.g. low fat yogurt, milk and cheese.

Water is crucial to sustain balance in the body and its role includes maintaining body temperature, digestion, preventing dehydration and lubricating joints. Tips to increase water intake without adding to calories:

·         Add a slice of lemon or lime

·         Frozen fruit pieces e.g. peach, orange and berries

·         Add a few leaves of mint

·         Slice of fresh ginger

·         Wedge of cucumber

*Special Thanks to my intern, Divya Hiremath, for assistance & providing newsletter content.