In March, we celebrate National Nutrition Month by focusing on healthy eating.

We also celebrate registered dietitians as dedicated leaders in advancing the nutrition status of all people. The foods we eat are influenced by our family’s history and culture. They’re also influenced by where we live, our budgets, and our tastes. This years theme, Celebrate a World of Flavors, gives us an opportunity to celebrate cultural heritage and traditions by exploring new recipes and flavors from around the world. What a great way to learn about one another and find appreciation in our diversity!

WAYS TO CELEBRATE A WORLD OF FLAVORS

¯ If you know a Registered Dietitian or Nutritionist, send him/her a thank you letter telling about their impact on your health and wellness.

¯ Ask your local Registered Dietitian how you can fine-tune a traditional family recipe to swap in healthier ingredients or cooking methods.

¯ Plan meals from other cultures. I have a friend who plans her families meals by searching the internet for the 2022 Food Holidays and other Obscure Holidays. Nearly all 365 days in the year celebrate a different food. Once they celebrated a Scottish Poet by serving Haggis, wearing plaid to dinner, reciting poetry and singing auld Lang Syne. Learning something new and creating memories is a fantastic way to embrace the global cultures and cuisines.

¯ Try a new fruit or vegetable from other cultures such as mango, plantain, or yucca. Trying new fruits and vegetables can help you make half your plate fruits and vegetables.

¯ Add a new ingredient to your favorite dishes to incorporate flavors from other cultures. For example, add curry to your chicken salad sandwich for a twist.

¯ Check out The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for ideas to “Personalize Your Plate to Include Foods from Other Cultures” at www.eatrightpro.org/practice/career-development/marketing-center/eat-right-nutrition-tips-and-handouts>

¯ If you are unsure where to start, you can always lean on MyPlate.Gov for inspiration. They have a library of recipe ideas at www.myplate.gov/myplate-kitchen>

¯ Even SNAP-ed New York has a great selection of recipes from around the world. Just go to www.snapedny.org/snap-ed-ny-recipes to Save Time, Save Money, and Eat Healthy.

We know the healthy choice is not always the easiest choice, but small changes can make a big difference. Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services Dietitian, Carey Skelton is available for nutrition education through SNAP-ed programs. The SNAP-ed programs are free for those who receive or qualify for SNAP benefits. We want to help you save time, save money, and eat healthy! Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services Senior Nutrition Program also provides nutritious meals through Home Delivered Meals and the Dining Out Program throughout the county.

We also sponsor several exercise programs. Please remember to contribute toward your OFAS nutrition services if you can. These programs are not sustainable without the support of participant and community contributions. Be aware that SNAP benefits can be used toward your contribution. Call NY Connects at 716-453-4582 for more details and information about any of these Nutrition and Wellness programs provided by Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services.