National Nutrition Month is here and it’s time to revamp your nutrition from the ground up! Initiated in March 1973 by the ADA as a week-long event, "National Nutrition Week" became a month-long observance in 1980 in response to growing public interest in nutrition. During March, check out the NNM blog for tips and information to help you make good nutrition choices that will help you eat right and lead a healthy and active lifestyle.

One of the tools that may help you in the quest for a healthier you is the BMI or Body Mass Index, a fairly reliable indicator of body fat for most adults. Your BMI is calculated from your height and weight. It is an inexpensive alternative to direct measurements of body fat, such as underwater weighing, but it is only one of many factors that you and your health-care provider should use in evaluating your health status.

Note though that even though the BMI maybe used as a screening tool to identify possible weight problems for adults, it’s not a diagnostic tool.

Weight problems and many diseases that affect Americans today can be traced back to bad nutrition and unsound eating habits.

But you or your family can get back on track by following these tips:

• A healthy eating plan that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free dairy and includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans and nuts.
• A nutrition plan that is also low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt and added sugars.
• Make calories count by thinking nutrient-rich rather than “good” or “bad” foods. Most food choices should be packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients — and lower in calories.
• Be aware of portion sizes. Even low-calorie foods can add up when portions are larger than you need.
• Focus on variety by eating a variety of foods from all the food groups. Fruits and vegetables can be fresh, canned or frozen. Look for locally grown produce that’s in season.
• Vary protein choices with more fish, beans and peas. Include at least three servings of whole grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice or pasta every day.
• Make the most of family mealtime. Eating meals together provides the opportunity to help children develop a healthy attitude toward food. It also enables parents to serve as role models, introduce new foods and establish a regular meal schedule.
• Make exercise another priority. Balancing physical activity and a healthful diet is your best recipe for managing weight and promoting overall health and fitness. Set a goal to be physically active at least 30 minutes every day.

Do you think you’re eating right but are not sure? Well then, take our quiz and find out.

And if you have a food, nutrition, health or fitness blog and mention National Nutrition Month and link to the NNM page, we will add you to our blog roll. Just email us: media@eatright.org.  While you’re at it, get the cool NNM widget for your own blog.