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I love food. I also understand as one gets older, you cannot eat the same way you did when you were younger. You have got to listen to your body. March is National Nutrition Month. The purpose is to remind each of us of the importance of making good food choices. The theme this year is Celebrate A World of Flavors. Healthy food can be found in all cultures and among all ethnic groups.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is committed to helping people develop healthy eating habits. Below is a sample of the National Nutrition Month 2022 quiz:

1. Most Americans consume more than enough calcium, potassium, Vitamin D and dietary fiber. FACT or FICTION
2. Only people with medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, need to limit their intake of added sugars and salt. FACT or FICTION
3. It is a good idea to wash all fruits and vegetables, even ones with peels that may not be eaten. FACT or FICTION
4. All carbohydrate foods, also known as “carbs”, are the same and provide not nutritional value. FACT or FICTION
5. A registered dietician nutritionist can help you develop a healthy eating plan that is as unique as you are. FACT or FICTION

The answers for the above quiz came from The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics website:

1. Most Americans consume more than enough calcium, potassium, Vitamin D and dietary fiber. FICTION –The intake of foods that provide these important nutrients is less than what is recommended for most people in the United States. Including more fruits, vegetables, beans, dairy, and whole grains would help individuals get more of these nutrients that are needed for good health.
2. Only people with medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, need to limit their intake of added sugars and salt. FICTION – It is recommended that all Americans over the age of 2 limit sources of added sugars to less than 10 percent of their total calories, and children under 2 should avoid all sources of added sugars. For salt, also known as sodium, less than 2300 milligrams per day is recommended and even less for children under the age of 14. Read the food labels to check for added sugars and the amount of salt.
3. It is a good idea to wash all fruits and vegetables, even ones with peels that may not be eaten. FACT – All produce should be washed under running water even if the peel will not be eaten. This is because dirt and bacterial can be transferred from the peel to the inside of the fruit or vegetable as it is sliced or peeled. No soap should be used, but a produce brush is recommended when washing firmer produce, such as melons and potatoes.
4. All carbohydrate foods, also known as “carbs”, are the same and provide not nutritional value. FICTION – Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy. Many nutritious foods are sources of carbohydrate, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods provide vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber, which can positively affect our health.
5. A registered dietician nutritionist can help you develop a healthy eating plan that is as unique as you. FACT – When it comes to healthy eating routine, one size does not fit all- everyone is unique. Nutrient needs are based on our age, activity level, sex, health conditions and other factors. Registered dietician nutritionists, also known as RDNs, can provide personalize nutrition advice to meet your goals. If you need help finding an RDN, you can ask your health care provider or call your insurance company.

For more information visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.