Put the “NEW” in Nutrition this National Nutrition Month!

We at Children’s Therapy Connections are a little nuts about nutrition! But for good reason: whether a physical therapist is working on increased range of motion and movement, an occupational therapist is working on increasing tolerance of food textures, or a speech-language pathologist is working to improve attention to listening activities, a child works best when they are fueled with nutritious, energizing foods that help to give them energy, regulate their sensory systems, and provide a brain boost. Nutrition truly impacts the physical, mental and emotional well-being of everyone and when the foods you put inside of your body are depleted of nutrients, you will feel depleted.

As Americans, we are constantly surrounded by convenient sources of food. On the one hand, this is good- we are such busy beings! It often feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything we want and need to get done. Providing meals for your family is one such task, and it can feel like a daunting daily hassle. It’s likely the main reason that those golden arches can look so bright and enticing at the end of a long day and before a short night. We all battle with it. But with little tweaks here and there, it IS possible to sneak healthier foods into you and your family’s diet. And it IS possible that they- and you- will enjoy them!

Although it’s important to eat for your health everyday, National Nutrition Month helps to increase our awareness of our overall eating habits in March- the month during which our seemingly endless winter finally gives way to spring, a season of newness and rebirth. In this spirit, we encourage you to put the “NEW” in nutrition this month!

The following are a list of five foods- whole foods and snacks alike- that may be new to you or your family. In the spirit of spring, we encourage you to give these a try!

1. Jicama

2. Kimchi