DISCOVER THE POWER OF NUTRITION

March 10, 2026
Katherine Geoghagan, RD, LDN, CDE
Latest posts by Katherine Geoghagan, RD, LDN, CDE (see all)

“Discover the Power of Nutrition” is the theme this year for National Nutrition Month. What does nutrition mean to you? As a registered dietitian, I often observe people who do not give what they eat a second thought. Food not only gives us energy and satisfies hunger but can also be the power that drives our health. Whether you are young or old, healthy, or sick, food gives us the “power” we need every day of life.

The diet culture today puts more emphasis on what not to eat and less on what to eat. For a healthy diet, include all food groups, carbohydrates, protein, and fat, in your daily diet to give yourself the nutrients your body needs to function properly. That is where the “Power” comes from. Carbohydrates are the main source of fuel for our bodies. Consuming whole grains, like whole wheat bread and cereal, will help keep your digestive system running smoothly and balance blood sugar. Fruits and vegetables give us antioxidants that help fight infections, boost the immune system, and feed our gut microbiome. Protein is the building block for muscle. Including lean meats, like chicken and fish, provides healthy protein to maintain and build muscle. Other protein sources that provide lean protein come from low fat dairy and beans. Fat is not an essential nutrient, but it makes our food taste better. Adding healthy fats such as nuts, avocado, and olive oil to our meals gives us Omega 3’s to aid with heart health and keeps us feeling full and satisfied. Try including a variety of whole grains, fresh fruit and vegetables, low fat milk/yogurt, lean protein and unsaturated fats in your daily food choices, to make a significant impact on your overall health.

Do you feel you need assistance to learn The Power of Nutrition? Check with your insurance provider as some companies offer coverage for nutritional education. Medicare will cover nutritional education services for patients with diabetes, kidney disease, and weight loss if your BMI is over 30.  Talk to your IMA physician about a referral to our in house diabetic educator.