March is National Nutrition Month in the United States. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics established this campaign to raise awareness about the importance of good nutrition and promote healthy eating habits.

Here are some facts to know about school age kids and teenagers and nutrition.

Why? Because nutrition is the cornerstone of good health and development.

• Nutrition dense food should be way up there on your list.
• Why? By regularly eating a wide range of essential vitamins, macronutrients, minerals and antioxidants, these will help to make sure your child has a nutrient-rich diet that will boost their immunity and prevent disease and other ailments.
• Nutrient-dense foods are low in calories.
• The foundation of your pantry should include whole grains, fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, low-fat dairy products, lean proteins and healthy fats.
• What’s the correlation between good nutrition and school? Then kids have the cognitive and physical stamina to learn throughout the school day.
• Some creative ideas – Add vegetables to macaroni and cheese. Try salmon with egg-fried rice or chicken skewers with broad bean rice.