National Nutrition Month 2026
This year’s National Nutrition Month® theme, “Discover the Power of Nutrition,” National Nutrition Month is an annual campaign created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. It provides the opportunity to highlight the nutritious, affordable, and versatile role that pasta plays within a healthy lifestyle. Share the Pasta has created a wide range of resources that can be used in newsletters, social media, educational materials, and other communications.
Balanced Energy & Satiety
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- Pasta provides steady, sustained energy thanks to its complex carbohydrate structure. This helps support mental focus, physical performance, and overall daily functioning. When paired with fiber‑rich vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, pasta creates balanced meals that promote fullness and satisfaction, helping prevent overeating and supporting healthy eating patterns throughout the day.
Nutrient Density & Versatility
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- Pasta is naturally low in sodium and fat and contributes important nutrients including iron, folate, and B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism and overall health. Its versatility makes it easy to incorporate a wide variety of nutrient‑dense ingredients such as leafy greens, legumes, seafood, lean meat, herbs, and heart‑healthy oils. This flexibility helps individuals meet dietary recommendations while enjoying a wide range of flavors and cuisines.
Boosts Vegetable Intake
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- Pasta is a vehicle for adding more vegetables to the diet as well as introducing more variety in the diet, by experimenting with different shapes and vegetables. A study found that pasta-eaters had a higher daily consumption of vegetables compared to non-pasta eaters.
Improved Diet Quality: What the Research Shows
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- Research published in Frontiers in Nutrition analyzed the diets of both adults and children who consume pasta. The findings showed that pasta eaters have better overall diet quality and higher nutrient intakes compared to those who do not eat pasta.
