Since 1973, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has celebrated National Nutrition Month^® by sharing practical, accessible guidance to help people build healthier habits. Each March, the campaign highlights a new theme designed to educate and inspire. This year’s theme, “Discover the Power of Nutrition,” highlights how our daily food and beverage choices can influence health and well-being, one bite, one meal and one small change at a time.  

To help tap into the power of nutrition this month, here are four simple, meaningful ways to elevate your everyday routine. 

1. Power Your Day with Protein

The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans emphasize the importance of including protein at every meal, with many adults benefiting from a range of 1.2-1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight (individual needs vary). Start by noticing how much protein you currently consume, then make small upgrades with high-quality, nutrient-dense options. 

Easy ways to boost your protein: 

• Aim for 30 grams of protein per meal to support energy and satiety.  
• Start your morning strong with protein-rich foods. 
• Build your lunch and dinner around lean proteins such as chicken, then add whole grains, veggies and healthy fats.
  • Try this: Tyson^® Grilled Chicken Breast Strips or any variety of aidells^® Smoked Chicken Sausage both make it easy to add high-quality protein to your meals in minutes.  
• Pair protein with fiber and healthy fats at snack time to keep your energy steady. 
• Explore higher protein products now widely available. 
  • Try this: One of our newest products, the Jimmy Dean^® Protein Waffles, available in Buttermilk, Blueberry and Cinnamon varieties, is a delicious way to get protein at any time of day!   

2. Learn (or Teach) Something New in the Kitchen 

Knowledge really is power—especially in the kitchen. Cooking is a skill, and like any skill, it grows with practice. Learning even one new technique can boost confidence, promote healthier eating and bring joy into the kitchen.  

Try one of these ideas: 

• Take a cooking class solo or with friends, a partner or your family.  
• Bake a healthy version of a treat, like banana muffins, strawberry oatmeal bars or avocado brownies.  
• Reinvent a family favorite by making one component from scratch. If chicken alfredo is a staple in your home, like it is in mine, try making your own sauce for the dish! 

3. Power Up a Healthy Habit

Small improvements to everyday habits can create meaningful momentum. Choose one habit you want to enhance or reenergize and focus on making it just a little stronger.  

Ideas to get started: 

• Hydrate more intentionally. Set a clear water goal and invest in a water bottle you enjoy using.  
• Add more fiber to your meals. Most Americans don’t reach the recommended 28 grams of fiber per day. 
• Add color to your plate. Brightly colored fruits and vegetables deliver a wide range of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants—perfect to pair with your protein of choice! 

4. Give Back to Your Community 

Nutrition isn’t just personal, it’s communal. Supporting local food banks can make a meaningful difference for neighbors facing food insecurity. Whether through time, donations or advocacy, every act of generosity helps.  

Ways to get involved: 

• Volunteer individually or with friends and family.  
• Organize a team volunteer day at work to build connections while giving back.  
• Make a one-time or recurring donation to support ongoing needs.  
• Contact your local food bank to learn which items are most needed, then host a targeted food drive. 

As you celebrate National Nutrition Month^®, take a moment to recognize the impact of your everyday choices: the meals you prepare, the habits you cultivate and the ways you show up for your community. Even small, intentional changes can spark meaningful progress. And if you carry these habits beyond March, imagine how much healthier, stronger and more energized you will be by year’s end.