March marks the observance of National Nutrition Month, a campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of making informed food choices and adopting healthy habits related to both nutrition and physical activity. Originating as National Nutrition Week in 1973, the event expanded to a full month in 1980 due to increasing public interest in diet and wellness.
Gretel Schueller, Health Managing Editor at US News, emphasizes the critical link between diet and overall health. Over the past 15 years, Schueller has worked alongside a team of doctors and dietitians to assess the impact of various diets, noting a clear connection between nutrition and chronic disease prevention.
“Diet is directly tied to around 80-85% of chronic diseases. The good news is that what we eat can significantly improve our health,” Schueller stated.
Heart disease, the leading cause of death both in North Dakota and nationwide, is largely preventable, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Schueller highlights that a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of heart disease by improving several health markers, including cholesterol levels, blood pressure, weight, and blood sugar control.
Schueller shares insights into what constitutes a heart-healthy diet, which prioritizes plant-based foods. “Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and plant-based proteins as the main components of your meals,” she advised. She also stresses the importance of incorporating fiber-rich foods like oatmeal and vegetables, which aid in lowering cholesterol. Additionally, she encourages the consumption of healthy fats, such as those found in avocados and nuts, while limiting unhealthy fats.
Craig Kraft, a Minot-based personal trainer, adds that adopting a nutritious diet can lead to lasting positive changes. “Once you commit to eating well for an extended period, the benefits are clear—higher energy levels, better sleep, and overall improved well-being. It becomes a habit you don’t want to break,” Kraft explained.
As National Nutrition Month continues, experts agree that making small, sustainable dietary changes can have profound effects on both physical and mental health. Now is an ideal time to begin embracing healthier eating habits for a better future.
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