March was National Nutrition Month and this year, we partnered with Cassandra Lepore, MS, RD, and Maggie Michalczyk, RDN, to discuss healthy eating habits!
National Nutrition Month is sponsored by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the world's largest organization of nutrition and dietetics practitioners. Since 1917, the Academy has sought to improve global health and well-being through food and nutrition.
Read what we learned from Maggie below.
Q: What role do apples play in supporting digestive health, and how can they be used to improve gut health during National Nutrition Month?
Apples are great for digestive and gut health because they’re a good source of fiber. Specifically, apples contain pectin, a type of fiber that acts as a prebiotic in your gut microbiome. Prebiotics help feed the good bacteria in your gut, which is beneficial for our digestive and immune systems, and so much more.
Q: Are there any creative or innovative ways to incorporate apples into recipes or meal plans, especially for those who may be looking to try new foods during National Nutrition Month?
Yes! One of the things I love so much about apples is how versatile they are and how well they pair with other flavors – from breakfast to dessert and every meal in between. There are so many ways to add them to your diet for more nutrition! A few of my favorite (and unique!) ways to enjoy them are thinly sliced in a turkey sandwich, thinly sliced dipped in chocolate with shredded coconut and pumpkin seeds on top, and diced in baked oatmeal with cinnamon for the ultimate on-the-go breakfast.
Q: In your experience, what are some effective ways to encourage children and families to incorporate more apples into their diets during National Nutrition Month and beyond?
I would say lead by example and have fun with it! Perhaps it’s making snack time fun by having a contest for who can make the sillies face out of apple slices or letting littles ones decorate apple slices with fun toppings like sprinkles, or dip them in yogurt. Also keeping apples within reach is a great strategy for children and families alike – this makes them easy to grab for a snack and top of mind for meal planning.
Q: What is your favorite Yes! Apples variety, why, and how are you snacking on them?
I’m a big EverCrisp® fan! I can’t get over how crunchy and crispy they are which makes them so satisfying and refreshing! I love pairing them with almond butter for a balanced snack or making my viral apple appetizers with them.
