2023 Volume 4-Issue 11

SNAP-Ed is a FREE, confidential nutrition education program that helps families manage food resources during tough economic times. The Extension Nutrition Team of knowledgeable nutrition educators provide practical, hands-on activities, and skills for healthy meal prep, as well as explore the importance of physical activity in a healthy lifestyle for the community members in the North Country. Visit our website for more recipes and tips for eating healthy for yourself and your family.

Visit our Website

March is National Nutrition Month!

This year's theme is "Fuel for the Future" This year we will be learning ways to eat with the environment in mind while still getting the nutrients we need to fuel our bodies for every phase of life. Let's talk about week 3 & 4 of National Nutrition Month.

Week 3: Stay Nourished and Save Money

Plan Your Meals and Snacks Watch the video Eating Healthy on a Budget -> In this video you will learn skills to help plan meals and snacks ahead of time, as well as learning the 3 steps for healthy eating on a budget, planning, purchasing and preparing!

Quench Your Thirst with Water <- Watch the video Rethink Your Drink. In this video you will learn about added sugars in popular drinks. The video discuses artificial sugars, and the importance of water, ways to flavor water, and staying hydrated!

Make Your Own Healthy Snacks Watch the video for a quick, easy, cost efficient, snack even the kids can make! -> Convenience costs money. Make your own snacks, such as Fruit Kabobs with Yogurt Dip, Trail Treat, Low-Fat Brownies, and Banana Crumble. Many snacks, even healthy ones, usually cost more when sold individually.

Watch Portion Sizes The MyPlate Healthy Eating Style video shows what food groups we need to get and stay healthy! Keeping an eye on your portions can actually save you money in the long run. Pay attention to servings per container. Eat from every food group to give your body fuel for the future!

Week 4: Eat a variety of foods from all food groups! Take a moment and watch the short video clips below to learn or refresh your memory on each food group and their importance on the MyPlate.

Fruit Food Group Vegetable Food Group

Grain Food Group Protein Food Group

Dairy Food Group Eating a variety of foods from all food groups can be a challenge at times. Include your favorite cultural foods and traditions, and during the month practice gratitude for your body by giving it the fuel it needs!

To find out more about National Nutrition Month 2023  "Fuel for the Future" Click here!

Recipe of the Week

Black Bean Burgers Black beans and cooked rice are used as the base of these delicious burgers. Flavored with scallions, garlic and spices, these are sure to please the whole family. For the recipe click here! Have you checked out our Recipe Bank yet? For more delicious recipes, tips & tricks and more please visit our SNAP-Ed NY website.

Tips and Tricks Save time, save money, while still eating healthy!

Proper storage of produce can increase its shelf life. When fruits and vegetables are stored improperly it causes them to go bad quickly, which can lead to throwing it away before it even has a chance to be eaten. Click here to find out more and to save you grocery money.

Hey Kids! Can you unscramble all of the words in the National Nutrition Month puzzle? (Click on the image below to print the sheet and get the answer key.)

SNAP-ED would like your feedback on our newsletters! We are interested in your opinion and suggestions as to what you would like to see in our newsletters. Please take a moment to fill out the brief survey below. The survey is anonymous. For the survey click here!

Upcoming Classes

Adults

Check out our Calendar to see more upcoming classes!

Sign up for Benefits now! The Supplemental Nutrition Program (SNAP) provides nutrition assistance to people with low income. It can help you buy nutritious foods for a better diet. To find out more about SNAP Benefits and other assistance program you may be eligible for visit: mybenefits.ny.gov

If you need help applying for SNAP, call or email a Nutrition Outreach and Education Program (NOEP) Coordinator. NOEP Coordinators tell you if you may be eligible for SNAP, answer any questions you may have, and help you complete and submit your application. It is free and confidential. St. Lawrence- Maximizing Independent Living Center- 315-764-9442 x405 Jefferson- Outreach Coordinator of Food Bank of NNY. -315-437-1899 x279 Clinton -Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York, Inc.- 518-563-4022 x112 Franklin- Maximizing Independent Living Center -518-483-2151

This material was funded by USDA's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - SNAP.  If you have a disability and are having trouble accessing information in this newsletter or need materials in an alternate format, contact tae38@cornell.edu for assistance.  Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities.