The theme for National Nutrition Month® this year is “Fuel for the Future,” and MyPlate’s messages dovetail beautifully. MyPlate is 3/4 plant-based. Here are tips to make it MyPlate about sustainability.

#1: Fill Up Half Your Plate With Fruits and Veggies Thinking Locally and In Season: MyPlate’s main message for fruit and vegetable consumption is that variety is key (and fun!). Use National Nutrition Month® to kickstart your produce explorations by trying a new-to-you vegetable that is also good for the earth. 

Seaweed, mushrooms, and local produce in season are at the top of the list along with beans, pulses and legumes. Let a variety of fruits and veggies be fuel for your body and the future!

#2: Go for Unique Whole Grains: According to the latest research, ancient whole grains are good for more than just health. They’re also being touted for their sustainability. 

Since MyPlate advises people to make at least half of the grains they eat whole grains every day, these ancient grains offer the perfect way to try fun new foods that fuel the future during National Nutrition Month®. 

Have you ever tried teff? Or amaranth? You’d be surprised how many grocery stores stock them; there are endless preparation possibilities.

#3: The Future is Now with Fun New Protein Foods: Pulses like beans, lentils, and peas regularly top the “most-sustainable foods” lists. It’s still tough to access lab-grown meats, but plant-based burgers and more are flying off the shelves. If you like meat, try to pick more grass-fed choices. Fueling for the future means being aware and making better choices as you can. Plant-based proteins like beans, legumes, and peas are better for you and the environment.

#4: Plant-based milk and dairy products are chocked full of calcium. Read labels to find the ones best for you. MyPlate.gov offers a full list of suggestions for good calcium choices online. 

For More Information: 

Check out the homepage for National Nutrition Month®:  https://www.eatright.org/national-nutrition-month

And MyPlate: https://www.myplate.gov/

By Judy Doherty, MPS, PCII