March is National Nutrition Month—a time to focus on small, realistic upgrades to the foods we eat every day. I’m on CBS Great Day Washington with my tips and recipes.
Smarter Snacking Starts with Veggies
One easy way to support your nutrition goals is by incorporating more vegetables into your snacks. Bite-sized cucumbers like Pop Its™ make this simple and convenient. Naturally sweet, crisp, and refreshingly hydrating, these mini cucumbers are perfect for lunchboxes or on-the-go snacking. Since they require minimal prep—just rinse and enjoy—they’re an effortless way to work toward your recommended three servings of vegetables per day.
Cucumbers are about 95% water, making them a great choice for hydration, and they also provide key nutrients like vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium. For a more satisfying snack, pair them with healthy fats and protein such as hummus, guacamole, avocado oil ranch, or tzatziki. The combination helps keep you fuller longer while supporting balanced energy levels.
A Crunchy Way to Add More Fruit
If you’re looking to boost your fruit intake, Crispy Fruit by Crispy Green offers a convenient and delicious option. Made with 100% pure fruit and no added sugar, these snacks deliver natural sweetness with a satisfying crunch.
They’re perfect for busy families—whether packed in lunchboxes or enjoyed as an easy after-school snack. With a variety of flavors like pineapple, strawberry, and mango, they make it simple to work toward the recommended two servings of fruit per day while keeping things interesting and flavorful.
Power Up with Protein
Protein is a key nutrient for building balanced meals and snacks, helping support muscle health, satiety, and overall wellness. Peanuts are a standout option, offering 7 grams of protein per serving—more than any other nut.
In addition to protein, peanuts and peanut butter provide nutrients that support healthy aging. Research, including a recent clinical trial in Australia, suggests that daily peanut consumption may help improve muscle power, which is important for maintaining strength and reducing fall risk over time.
Beyond enjoying peanuts on their own or spreading peanut butter on toast, they can also be incorporated into flavorful recipes. For example, try sriracha peanut noodles by whisking together peanut butter, soy sauce, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and water, then tossing with whole wheat spaghetti, broccoli slaw, bell peppers, and edamame for a balanced, plant-forward meal.
Rethinking Everyday Staples
Another way to make meaningful nutrition upgrades is by rethinking the ingredients you use every day. Simple swaps can add more nutrients without sacrificing taste.
“I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter!” has introduced a new NutriRich™ formula, offering improved taste and creaminess along with added nutritional benefits. One tablespoon provides an excellent source of vitamins A, D, E, and B12, along with omega-3 ALA, contributing to a more nutrient-dense eating pattern.
Whether you’re following a specific eating plan or simply aiming to boost your intake of essential nutrients, choosing fortified, functional ingredients can be an easy and practical step.
