Discover the Power of Nutrition

See Lucas County Extension promote National Nutrition Month on WTOL's Good Day program.

Each year during March, we celebrate National Nutrition Month®, which is a nutrition education and information campaign sponsored by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. It invites everyone to learn about making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits.

The theme for National Nutrition Month® 2026 is Discover the Power of Nutrition, which highlights the power nutrition has in helping individuals and communities thrive.

Our food and beverage choices have the power to help us thrive. To get the most benefit from the foods and beverages you choose throughout the week, consider the following tips:

  • Choose healthful foods from all the food groups.
  • Alternate your food choices for a variety of nutrients. Including a variety of foods within each food group can help you to get the nutrients you need. 
  • Avoid fad diets that promote unnecessary restrictions. They may advertise quick and easy solutions, but they often don’t promote healthy or sustainable habits. 

Resources can be a big obstacle when it comes to healthy eating. But there are things you can do to stay nourished on a limited budget. 

  • Make a grocery list and stick to it so you buy only what you need. Check store sales when you’re planning your meals.
  • Modify recipes to use less expensive ingredients – for example, replace some or all the meat in a soup or casserole with beans, or use frozen or canned vegetables in place of fresh ones.
  • Learn cooking skills that work with the tools you have. Know how to prepare a variety of dishes and make use of budget-friendly ingredients.
  • If you’re eligible, consider signing up for community resources, such as SNAP, WIC, and local food pantries. Visit our Food Assistance Resource Guide to learn more.

Contact your local EFNEP team to learn where free programs are delivered in your community. 

  1. Smart Screens Smart Families - Technology Toolkit

    Aug. 27, 2026

    If you would like to request and pick up a free techology toolkit, please see this page for details. 

    If you would like to create your own family guidelines and toolkit, visit this blog for suggestions.

     

  2. Two opportunities to attend "Basic Home Food Preservation: Deciding What's Best for You"

    Jul. 23, 2026

    Ohio State University Extension, Lucas County is pleased to partner with two community organizations to provide information on home food preservation. Both classes cover the same topic - offered on different days and locations. The classes are free but we ask you to rsvp. 

    Thursday August 6th, 2026, 5:00 - 6:00pm at The ProMedica Ebeid Center, 2nd floor, details here

  3. Ongoing Outbreak of Cyclosporiasis Affecting Ohioans

    Jul. 13, 2026

    For 2026 factsheets for Growers, Consumers, and Foodservice and Healthcare providers, please visit this website: Cyclospora Outbreak - What Growers and Consumers Need to Know | Fruit and Vegetable Safety Program

  4. Making Gardening Accessible

    Jul. 08, 2026

    Through the support of generous grants, there will be an accessible garden on the Lucas County Fairgrounds during fair week, 2026! 

    One page handout with specific information about this garden and suggestions for creating your own accessible gardens

    For additional information:

  5. Good Day - Memory, healthy brains and making memories

    Jun. 01, 2026

    Six Pillars of Brain Health: 

    The six pillars of brain health are based on research compiled by the Global Council of Brain Health. The pillars are exercise, sleep, social engagement, stress management, cognitive stimulation, and nutrition. Habits for brain health are not only for older adults; they are for all stages of the lifespan. Healthy habits for brain health are also good for body health including heart health.

    Upcoming community opportunities:

  6. Own Your Financial Story: Small Steps, Big Impact, America Saves Week

    Apr. 06, 2026

    Sign up go.osu.edu/ohiosaves to participate in 2026 America Saves Week.

    Why? Those with a savings plan are twice as likely to save successfully.

  7. Early Spring Garden Resources

    Mar. 02, 2026

    From Winter Sowing to garden planning, the 2026 growing season is upon us! This Ohio Gardening Calendar was a favorite resource at the Toledo GROWs Seed Swap. Check out our vegetable gardening "how to" page at go.osu.edu/GrowLucas

  8. How Your Local Lucas County Extension Office is Funded

    Feb. 24, 2026

    In Ohio, all Ohio State University Extension county offices operate on a cost share of federal, state, and local dollars. 

    In Lucas County:

  9. Box Tree Moth Update, February 2026

    Feb. 16, 2026

     

    Box Tree Moth (BTM) has been detected in Lucas County. This post will provide you, residents of Lucas County, the latest information about this new invasive species found in Lucas County, and includes links to additional information and resources. 

     

     

    PRESS RELEASE FROM ODA

  10. Wintertime Wellbeing

    Feb. 02, 2026

    Thank you, Annie Giovannucci, Meteorologist, Multimedia Journalist, 13abc for highlighting the challenges and opportunities of wintertime wellbeing. Here is the link to the digital story:...

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