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Center announces National Nutrition Month

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ryan Throneberry
  • Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Public Affairs
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  The Health and Wellness Center is set to host the annual National Nutrition Month through March to educate families on proper nutritional habits.

The theme for this year's event, "Get Your Plate in Shape," encourages families to monitor the contents and portion sizes of each meal.

The goal of this month-long event is to encourage families to make healthy food choices in a fun and informative environment.

"It is important for parents to get their children started on proper nutrition at a young age," said Dana Snook, HAWC registered dietitian. "The lessons learned at the events this month will teach community members about healthy eating and nutrition."

The HAWC personnel will host three events for community members and their children next month.

"My children and I are very excited to participate in this year's nutrition month," said Love Vinci, HAWC health fitness technician. "My little ones are looking forward to some of the activities lined up."

"Ready, Set, Grow" is an event hosted by the HAWC where children can plant their own vegetable seed in the joint base community garden behind the Joint Base Theater.

Children will be able to periodically check the progress of their plants to understand where vegetables come from. Snook will visit multiple child development centers on base throughout the month to assist the children with the planting process.

The Go Green for Health Nutrition Fair will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 16 in the 87th Medical Group patient waiting area. The fair will include booths with helpful information regarding nutrition and proper dieting regiments. Health professionals will provide ways to incorporate more greens and lean meats into daily diets, as well as engage participants in interactive nutrition activities.

"Nutrition is an important part of our daily lives," said Snook. "A good diet can prevent a laundry-list of ailments and diseases."

The entire month will highlight the importance of healthy eating habits.

"Families Eating Smart Together" is the final event of the month, taking place from 5 to 7 p.m. March 27 at the McGuire Fitness and Sports Center. Families will prepare a healthful meal together and exercise while the meal cooks. This is an opportunity for the participants to bond during both the preparation and physical activity portions.

"As a mother of four, nutrition starts at home," said Vinci. "The good thing about the FEST event is that it's an opportunity for families to learn about healthy eating habits while cooking and exercising together."

Snook will provide healthy recipe options throughout March in the Air, Land & Sea Times. Call 754-2462 for more information or to enroll your family in these fun educational opportunities.