Published on February 28, 2026

Grilled chicken and steak salads with avocado and tomatoes on a red table beside a colorful woven basket.
Discover the Power of Nutrition

National Nutrition Month® is an annual campaign established in 1973 by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. During the month of March, everyone is invited to learn about making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits.

This year’s theme, “Discover the Power of Nutrition”, reminds us how important nutrition is to prevent chronic disease and keep our communities healthy.

Many common health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, are linked to what we eat and whether people have access to healthy and affordable food. A public health approach to nutrition focuses on making it easier for everyone to choose healthy foods, through education, access and policies that help make this happen. This month we invite our community to “Discover the Power of Nutrition” and how healthy eating can help prevent disease, improve quality of life and support overall health.

Programs & Resources
¡Viva Health! Nutrition Pláticas

The Community Nutrition Program offers free ¡Viva Health! Nutrition Pláticas — one-hour conversations led by Community Health Workers. These sessions provide practical guidance on adding more fruits and vegetables into everyday meals in ways that honor culture, traditions and lifestyle.

To schedule, please fill out the Community Nutrition Services Request Form. For questions or to learn more, please email the Community Nutrition program or call 210-207-2722.

Food Uniting Neighbors (F.U.N.) Events

Metro Health’s Community Nutrition team is hosting their 3rd annual Join the F.U.N. (Food Uniting Neighbors) event.

Date: Thursday, March 19

Time: 4 – 6 p.m.

Location:

Lou Hamilton Community Center – Parking Lot

10700 Nacogdoches Road

San Antonio, TX 78217

Directions

This event brings together partners to promote nourishment, food security, ahis family friendly event will include a fresh produce giveaway, food samples from Por Vida restaurants, Viva Health nutrition education and activities, information/resources from community partners and door prizes.

Women, Infants & Children (WIC) & San Antonio Lactation Support Center Services (SALSC)

The WIC program provides monthly food benefits to support families with nutritious options selected for high nutritional value and affordability. WIC also offers in-person and virtual nutrition education classes.

The SALSC is a breastfeeding education center that offers information and support to pregnant and breastfeeding moms. The SALSC empowers mothers by providing the support, education and resources needed to achieve their breastfeeding goals and ensure optimal nutrition for their infants.

Learn more about WIC eligibility and enrollment, or find out more about SALSC.

¡Por Vida! Healthy Restaurant Program

The ¡Por Vida! program makes it easier to find local restaurants offering healthier menu options. Participating restaurants are recognized for nutritious offerings, cleanliness, sustainability and community involvement.

Healthy Corner Stores

More than 40 Healthy Corner Stores across San Antonio provide convenient access to fresh, affordable fruits and vegetables in neighborhood locations.

Food Safety

Food safety and public health also includes preventing food poisoning and ensuring meals are safe to eat. Metro Health’s Food and Environmental program offers tips on how to make sure food is safe to consume.

Monthly Community Gardens

Metro Health’s Healthy Neighborhoods Program hosts community garden events that:


Promote sustainable gardening practices.
Encourage healthy eating and environmental awareness.
Strengthen neighborhood connections.

Growing food locally empowers families to access fresh produce while building community resilience.

To learn more about the monthly community gardens in your neighborhood, view the Healthy Neighborhoods program or call at 210-207-7061.

Nutrition & Oral Health

Good nutrition supports strong teeth and gums. To protect oral health:


Drink water to rinse away bacteria and support saliva production.
Enjoy calcium-rich foods to strengthen enamel.
Choose lean proteins for healthy gums.
Snack on fiber- and vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables.
Limit added sugars to reduce tooth decay.

Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential. Metro Health’s Oral Health Program connects uninsured and underinsured families to local providers. Children who do not qualify for Medicaid or CHIP may be eligible for Title V financial dental assistance.

Learn more about the Oral Health Program.

Simple Steps to Power Your Day

Choose foods from all food groups for balanced nutrition.
Avoid restrictive fad diets and seek advice backed by science.
Plan meals ahead to reduce stress.
Practice safe food handling at home.
Incorporate physical activity in ways that fit your lifestyle.
Connect with community resources like SNAP, WIC and local food programs.

National Nutrition Month® is a reminder that small, consistent changes can have a powerful impact. Discover how your daily choices can fuel your body, strengthen your health and help San Antonio thrive.

Events

March 1 – March 31
Month Long Food Drive – Healthy Neighborhoods
March 6
Community Baby Shower at Las Palmas Library: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
March 12
WIC Nutrition Event at Pecan Valley Park: 1 – 4 p.m.
March 19
F.U.N. Event at Lou Hamilton Community Center: 4 – 6 p.m.
March 25
Healthy Neighborhood Garden Events:

Teaching Garden at Villa Coronado Park: 1 – 4 p.m.
WIC Teaching Garden at Pecan Valley Park: 1 – 4 p.m.
WIC Teaching Garden at Salinas WIC Office: 1 – 4 p.m.