National nutrition month: food connects us | va ann arbor health care | veterans affairs

Written by: Kristina Eggener, MS, RDN Every March, dietitians take part in National Nutrition Month®. This campaign provides awareness and nutrition education for people to make informed

food choices and develop habits to meet their unique needs. The 2025 theme is “Food Connects Us”. People around the world use food to connect to their culture, family, friends, and

community.  CONNECT THROUGH FOOD This March, consider building connections through food in one of the following ways: * Share a meal with others. Make a family classic or learn a recipe from

a friend. * Take a cooking class to learn new culinary skills. Check with your local VA for Healthy Teaching Kitchen opportunities or explore the VA’s Healthy Teaching Kitchen YouTube

channel. * Explore where your food comes from. Connect with local food sources through farmers’ markets, co-ops, farms, restaurants, and other locations. * Become a Community Supported

Agriculture (CSA) member to receive fresh produce and/or other farm products. * Learn about seasonal produce. Add some of these foods to a personal or shared community garden. * Slow down

when eating a meal or snack. Use all of your senses to fully experience what you are eating. * Try a new food such as kale, almonds, salmon, or avocado. Dietitian approved recipes are

available online.  CONNECT WITH US Reach out to your local VA to schedule a visit with a Registered Dietitian. VA dietitians realize many factors affect the types of foods we eat and our

relationship with food. They can help you learn what foods work best for your health needs and lifestyle.  Visit nutrition.va.gov to learn more about finding healthy foods, cooking healthy

meals, and viewing materials on healthy eating. Current education materials include cancer, diabetes, fiber, heart health, kidney disease, sustainable eating, weight management, and more!