The Best 10 Nutrition Tips From Registered Dietitian Nutritionists

National Nutrition Month is the time of year to get perspective and focus on issues pertaining to your nutrition and health. Today, March 9th, just so happens to be Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day, a day to celebrate the contributions of dietitians all around the country. But what exactly are dietitians?

These food experts have proven their dedication by earning a bachelor's degree in nutrition or a related field, by completing an intensive supervised practice averaging one year, and by passing a registration exam required by the Academy of Dietetics and Nutrition (the world's largest organization dedicated to food and nutrition). Many registered dietitian nutritionists (RDN) hold graduate degrees, and some are even certified nutrition specialists in areas such as renal nutrition, diabetes education, or even sports nutrition. Registered dietitians work in settings such as hospitals or inpatient care facilities, and many other have private practices. Others work in research, in community and public health centers, as teachers of nutrition, or as consultants to the corporate world for wellness programs, consumer affairs, product development, and such.

Since it is National Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day and National Nutrition Month, I decided to interview 10 dietitians across the country who are influential movers and shakers in the nutrition and dietetics field. I asked them for the advice that they not only provide to their clients, but also practice in their own lives. So let's now introduce these nutrition experts with their top nutrition recommendations.

1. Eat More Whole Plants. Sharon Palmer, RDN, The Plant-Powered Dietitian and author of Plant-Powered for Life says that "no matter what your eating style, you can gain more health benefits by filling up your plate with at least three-fourths plant foods, such as beans, lentils, whole grains, like quinoa, brown rice, and farro; vegetables, and fruits. Plus this eating pattern is better for the planet, too."

2. Combine Your Food. "Combining foods is so important for increasing your metabolism and controlling hunger better" says Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN, sports dietitian and weight management specialist, founder of Family. Food. Fiesta. "When you combine foods such as a carbohydrate and protein, you will feel more full and satisfied than if you just ate one of the foods by itself. For example, have you ever eaten a fruit and still felt hungry? Add some peanut butter, almond butter, nuts, cheese, or yogurt to the fruit and you are a happy camper. When it comes to food combinations, an easy rule of thumb is to remember to eat at least 2 food groups for a hearty, satisfying snack. Double the pleasure. Double the benefits."

3. Make Time to Eat with Those You Love. Toby Amidor, MS, RD author of The Greek Yogurt Kitchen, values family meal times with her loved ones. "As I have school-aged children and their weeknight schedules are hectic, I make a point to eat breakfast each morning together with my kids. I am able to ask them what is in store for the day and make sure they leave my house with their bellies filled with a nutritious breakfast and a smile on their face."

4. Have A Plan of Action. Michelle Dudash, RDN, Cordon Bleu-certified chef and creator of Clean Eating Cooking School: Monthly Meal Plans Made Simple recommends that you look at your kitchen, see what you have on hand, and plan what you need to get. "It's all about being armed with streamlined recipes, planning for the week, and having a calculated grocery list to stock your pantry strategically. A well-stocked pantry also helps with last-minute meals at a moment's notice. You don't need to keep a lot of food on hand, just the right food on hand to produce balanced meals, meaning proteins, vegetables and whole grains. Broth, dried herbs and spices, a couple oils and a few vinegars also boost flavor."

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