October 24 is a day to resolve to make changes in our own diets and to take action to solve food-related problems in our communities at the local, state, and national level. In 2016, Food Day has the theme "Toward a Greener Diet."

The daily diet in today's fast and corporate lifestyle is contributing to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other health problems. Eating Real can save your own health and put our food system on a more humane, sustainable path.

Celebrate Food:

Food is truly amazing. We all know that. So make your next grocery shopping trip more exploratory by asking each member of your family to choose a new fruit or vegetable to try. Plan meals to include these new healthy foods, and use them to spark great conversations about what you're eating. Your dinner table will be full of food, conversation and giggles.

Celebrate the People Who Grow and Harvest Local Foods:

Local farmers are all around us: in farmers markets, grocery stores, schools and restaurants. When you choose to buy local, you are supporting members of your community. When you dine out, try restaurants that serve local foods and support farmers. Or, celebrate your own green thumb by grabbing a pot, some dirt and seeds, and grow your own food. Fresh herbs are a tasty way to start.

Celebrate Cooking:

There is nothing like preparing a healthy meal with your own two hands. This is one way we like to teach kids about nutrition. Cooking at home is a great way to get your family interested in trying new healthy foods. Prepare meals at home and you can decrease calorie consumption, reduce stress and save money.

If you are adventurous enough to try a new recipe, perhaps try one from a different region of the world (Greek, Thai, German, etc.). The entire family can learn how other cultures eat and celebrate food.

Celebrate being active:

Encourage one another to get active and move more on a daily basis. This way, you can enjoy the foods and drinks you all love from time to time and balance it out with exercise.

Tell 5 friends about Food Day:

The success of Food Day lies in people participating in it. Tell your friends and neighbors about it, and mention it on your social networks. Post pictures of the meals you make on Pinterest and Instagram, and share recipes on Facebook and Twitter. Make Food Day so much fun this year that you can't wait until October 24 rolls around again next year.

The most important ingredient:

The most important ingredient in Food Day is you! Use October 24 to start- or celebrate - eating a healthier diet and putting your family's diet on track. Food Day is not just a day; it's a year-long catalyst for healthier diets and a better food system. Let's use this energy to make a meaningful and long-lasting difference!

                                                                                        ~ Dt. Deepalekha Banerjee