This month marks the time of the year when nutrition is celebrated nationally for one month. Yes, the month of March is national nutrition month! This year’s theme is “Eat right, Your Way, Every Day”. This theme encourages Americans to develop healthful eating plans for themselves that incorporate food choices and preferences based on their lifestyles, cultures and health needs.

It is a common misperception that eating healthfully means giving up your favorite foods. However, the opposite is true. There is no one size fits all way to eat that is right for everyone. In reality, if a certain way of eating does not fit into your lifestyle and personal needs, it won’t work in the long-term and can even leave you missing out on the nutrition you need to get you through your day.

Whether you are a busy parent, executive, athlete or vegetarian, eat right for your lifestyle. Make choices that create a healthy eating pattern that meets your daily calorie limits and nutrient needs by applying these simple tips:

If you are a career oriented woman your days may be spent at a desk. For desktop eating, try keeping single size servings of snacks in your desk such as 1/3 cup mixed nuts, whole grain crackers, peanut butter, fruit, pita chips, or sliced vegetables.

Are you a parent always on the go? Prep fresh fruits and veggies in to-go baggies. You can also portion out hummus or peanut butter into tupperware to conveniently dip whole grain pretzel sticks or celery into. These spreads are also convenient for topping off a whole grain sandwich.

If you enjoy working out, what you eat does affect your performance. Your body needs fuel before it exercises so make sure to eat breakfast or have a light snack before working out. Try 6 oz of Greek yogurt, a boiled egg with a piece of fruit, 1 slice of whole wheat bread with 1tbsp of peanut butter, or low fat cheese string with 10 almonds. These foods will provide adequate energy to fuel your entire daily workout.

The key to a healthy vegetarian diet, like any diet, is to enjoy a variety of foods. Enjoy vegetarian chili with black beans for added protein and fiber. A hummus filled pita sandwich with avocado and tomatoes is a convenient lunch option. Add extra firm tofu and peppers to make a delicious fajita. Pasta primavera, veggie pizza and tofu- vegetable stir fry’s are also nutrient filled dishes to be included in a vegetarian lifestyle.

Whatever your lifestyle is, Rittenhouse Women’s Wellness Center will set you up for success by developing a personalized eating plan that fits your unique lifestyle, nutritional needs, and tastes. As a group, we strive to communicate that the total diet or overall pattern of food eaten is the most important focus of healthy eating. Most desirable foods can fit within this pattern, if consumed in moderation, appropriate portion size and combined with daily physical activity.