Each year, the month of September is dedicated to Rashtriya Poshan Maah, which is celebrated as National Nutrition Month across the country. The National Nutrition Month theme for 2023 is “Healthy Diet Going Affordable for All.” National Nutrition Week (NNW), which is observed annually from September 1–7, aims to increase public awareness of the value of nutrition and the value of having healthy eating habits.
When did National Nutrition Month (NNM) begin?
In 1973, the American Dietetic Association (ADA), now known as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, introduced National Nutrition Week. The goal of this week is to increase public awareness of the many benefits of a healthy diet and active lifestyle.
In 1980, the concept of National Nutrition Week gained enthusiastic support from the people, leading to an extension of the celebrations for an entire month. In 1982, the Indian government initiated a series of programs to inspire, enlighten, and educate people about the benefits of a nutritious diet and its association with a long and healthy life, marking the first observance of National Nutrition Week in India.
What is Rashtriya Poshan Maah?
The Ministry of Rural Development is using this chance to share important information about healthy eating with people. During this month, they will talk about things like saving water in a way that considers both men and women. Furthermore, they will discuss the traditional food that tribal women and children eat.
Poshan Abhiyaan aims to make sure that women, especially those who are pregnant or nursing, children, and teenagers, get better nutrition. To achieve this goal, they need the help of the community. Therefore, it’s important for everyone to join in (Jan Andolan).
To encourage wholesome eating practises, the Indian government has launched a number of projects.
These programmes include:
- Raising awareness of the value of nutrition
- Providing subsidies for nutritious meals
- Increasing accessibility to wholesome meals
- Regulating the food sector to ensure that food is healthy and safe
Here are some suggestions for eating healthily to help you make better decisions.
To have a healthy diet with more fiber, try to eat foods like potatoes, rice, cereals, and similar items. So, incorporating these foods should make up about one-third of what you eat. By doing so, it will help you get more fiber in your diet.
Make sure to include ample portions of fruits and vegetables in your diet, because these provide essential nutrients.
Boost your nutrition by eating more fish, especially oily ones, like salmon and mackerel.
They have lots of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Reduce your intake of saturated fats and sugars to lower cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of heart disease. Cutting back on sugar can also prevent diabetes and dental problems.
Limit your daily salt intake to no more than 6 grams to help prevent hypertension.
Stay well-hydrated by consuming fluids regularly and avoiding alcoholic beverages.
Don’t skip breakfast, as it is an important component of a balanced diet for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and skipping it as a weight-loss strategy is a misconception.
What are some ways to observe National Nutrition Week 2023?
- Participate in a health awareness campaign or join a rally.
- Volunteer your time for a nutrition education initiative.
- Contribute to a food bank or a similar organization that supports individuals with food insecurity.
- Enhance your knowledge of nutrition.
- Prepare a wholesome meal for your loved ones or friends.
- Cultivate your own vegetable garden.
Read a nutrition-focused book. During National Nutrition Week in India, a variety of events such as seminars, workshops, and awareness campaigns take place. So, they teach people about eating healthily, staying well-nourished, and preventing diseases from bad eating habits. Moreover, these events also help people learn what to do to avoid nutrition problems.