This post was written by Adrianne Kartholl, RDN, LD, clinical nutrition supervisor, Parkview Health.
“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” This timeless insight, attributed to Hippocrates, perfectly captures the spirit of National Nutrition Month 2026 and this year’s theme, “Discover the Power of Nutrition.” Nutrition holds the remarkable ability to shape how we feel and how we heal each and every day.
In an era of information overload—and misinformation—this theme invites us to pause and reconnect with the simple truth: food is powerful. While media hype and marketing constantly push the next diet trend or superfood, the reality is much simpler. What we eat, and how we eat, directly influences our short- and long‑term health.
The power of whole foods
A balanced eating pattern grounded in whole, minimally processed foods continues to show benefits across all ages and backgrounds. This approach to nutrition includes:
- Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables
- A variety of protein sources
- Micronutrient‑dense dairy options
- Whole grains
- Healthy fats
Reducing intake of heavily processed foods helps lower the risk for chronic diseases, while regular movement and physical activity support health far beyond calorie burning.
Nutrition is personal
Nutrition does not look the same for everyone. Our traditions, cultures, experiences and environments influence how we approach food. Combined with the ongoing influx of new trends and recommendations, many people may feel lost or overwhelmed. That’s where the nutrition experts step in!
Celebrating our Parkview nutrition experts
At Parkview, we are fortunate to have an exceptionally talented team of nutrition experts. With backgrounds from highly respected accredited universities and supervised practicums, over 50 registered dietitian-nutritionists serve across the health system each day, supporting patients, peers and communities with evidence‑based care.
Our dietitians can be found caring for inpatients in the hospital, offering medical nutrition therapy in outpatient clinics and virtual settings, and providing community nutrition education through classes and outreach.
Our team offers specialized expertise and care in the following areas and more:
- Pediatric nutrition
- Adult and pediatric weight management
- Gastrointestinal health
- Critical care
- Cardiac health
- Diabetes care and education
- Eating disorders
- Oncology nutrition
- Neurological conditions
Committed to excellence in care
Above all, our team is dedicated to providing the highest quality nutrition care and education—empowering individuals to make informed decisions and discover the power of how food can support their healthiest life.
This March, we invite you to join us in celebrating National Nutrition Month and to take your own step toward discovering the power of nutrition. Small changes can create meaningful impacts, and our team is here to support you every step of the way.
