The World Health Organization defines nutrition as “the intake of food considered in relation to the body’s dietary needs.” The significance of nutrition cannot be denied at any cost because it is directly involved with the health and wellness of individuals and overall communities.
The science of nutrition not just involves taking in food, but it also involves the process of absorbing, assimilating, utilizing and even excreting the waste out of the body. The importance of nutrition is evident from various scientifically sound and reliable research studies. It has also been proven that people with adequate nutritional status are less prone to diseases as compared to those who have poor nutritional status. It can thus safely be stated that good nutrition is actually a cornerstone of good health, when it is coupled with ongoing physical activity. On the other hand, poor nutrition may lead to decreased immunity towards various diseases, compromised psychological and physical growth and development as well as malfunctioning of the overall metabolism of the body.
In order to emphasize the importance of nutrition, the month of March is celebrated as Nutrition Month, especially in the region of North America. However, this is not just limited to North America, rather it is now celebrated in bits and pieces all around the globe. The goal of celebrating March Nutrition Month is to make the masses aware about the importance of nutrition, especially in relation to the maintenance of good health. The time has now come where we have to take steps to designate one particular day in the month of March as the “International Nutrition Day”. This step will be helpful in further emphasizing the value of nutrition in the daily lives of common people and communities generally.
March Nutrition Month additionally focuses on the significance of making healthy and informed food choices, as far as the common people are concerned. It is also a way to acknowledge the work of nutritionists and dietitians as they play a very important role in our healthy lifestyles. Every year, a specific theme is assigned to the March Nutrition Month. The theme for the current year 2015 is “Bite into a Healthy Lifestyle” which entails us to lead healthy lives by incorporating wise food and nutrition related choices. Celebrating March Nutrition Month will not make people aware about the importance of nutrition in daily lives but will also help people lead healthy lives.