With the shift to warmer weather, now is the perfect time to rethink old habits and begin some healthy changes. “Beyond the Table” is the theme for March’s National Nutrition Month this year. It encourages Veterans to focus on how good nutrition can support their health.

Foods and drinks are important parts of your Whole Health. Choosing healthy foods and drinks can help you:

  • Reduce pain and inflammation
  • Manage weight
  • Control blood sugar levels
  • Increase gut health
  • Reduce symptoms of disease
  • Maintain or improve mood and behavior
  • Influence sleep

The mission of VA’s Nutrition and Food Services is to care for America’s Veterans with complete nutrition care based on science. With the help of a VA Dietitian, Veterans can learn how to choose nutritious foods to meet their long-term health goals. For recipes, videos, podcasts and other resources, visit the VA Nutrition and Food Services National Nutrition Month resource page.

Eat Wisely

The National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention is VA’s primary source for healthy living education. In March, the focus is on the Eat Wisely message. Here are some ideas:

  • Follow a healthy eating pattern that is right for you
  • Choose nutritious foods and drinks that you enjoy, reflect your culture and fit your budget
  • Choose more vegetables and fruits, and stay within appropriate calorie limits 
  • Limit foods and beverages that contain higher amounts of added sugars, saturated fat and sodium, and limit alcohol.

Watch this short video to learn more about you can Eat Wisely, and check out fact sheets and more information here.

Veterans Canteen Service supports the well-being of Veterans, caregivers, family members and employees through cafeterias, coffee shops, retail stores and more. They care about what matters to you by offering a variety of food and beverage choices to meet your needs in a comfortable setting.

To see what is in store this month, visit: Food Courts – Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) (va.gov) or in person at your VA facility.

National Nutrition Month gives you and your loved ones a chance to practice healthful eating and physical activity habits, just in time for spring. Take advantage of all that VA offers to support your healthy eating habits, “Beyond the Table.”

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5 Comments

  1. DAVID GEORGE February 22, 2024 at 19:48

    I’ve been following many health related resources- books on health foods, etc. and am growing some of my own veggies. Why not offer a class to show other how they can do what I’m doing if they live in Florida where the climate is ideal for this, especially south Florida where I live. I can show you photos of some of my garden plants if you allow me to

  2. Annie Fitch, HMC (ret) February 22, 2024 at 17:52

    I have been asking my VA for help for the last 2 years. Asked for a nutritional consult and have asked for the move program. About 3 times each. But it met with the same deaf ears as when I asked for a dermatologist and a physical therapist to help with my MS. I myst live in the wrong state.

  3. Dave Bailey February 22, 2024 at 05:29

    In order to eat healthy, you’ll be shelling out more money. Bad habits are not easy to overcome. It took a heart attack at age 65 to convince me to change my diet and lifestyle. Don’t wait until your body tells you do to start eating healthy and exercise as it may be too late.

  4. Lorrie MN Keating February 21, 2024 at 11:40

    The cover photo: Is there anything that the government does that they won’t push the LGBTQ agenda?

  5. Jason Fitzgerald February 21, 2024 at 01:35

    Thanks for this important health and life information. The VA can certainly help by adding more kitchens and cafeterias with hot wholesome meals. I visited the VA in Worcester, MA and was nauseated but couldn’t find any hot or appropriate food other than the calorie filled packages and beverages on display for the most elderly veterans I saw there. Help us live longer and healthier lives by providing healthier foods.

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