NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH — WEEK 2
By: Toni Swanson | March 16, 2026
We’re continuing our month‑long celebration of National Nutrition Month, and this year’s theme—“Discover the Power of Nutrition”—reminds us that good health begins with reliable, science‑backed information. With so much nutrition noise online, it can be hard to know what (or who) to trust. That’s why Week 2 is all about finding guidance rooted in evidence—not trends.
Find Advice Backed by Science
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- Seek accurate, credible nutrition sources
Stick to information from organizations grounded in research, such as registered dietitians, national health agencies, academic institutions, and peer reviewed publications. - Meet with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) who understands your needs
RDNs are trained to translate the science into practical recommendations—and to tailor it specifically to your age, health conditions, cultural/personal preferences, and lifestyle. They are also great at holding accountability and keeping you on track to meet your goals. - Watch for nutrition “red flags”
Be cautious of advice that sounds too good to be true—like quick fixes, extreme restrictions, miracle “detoxes,” or anything that eliminates entire food groups without medical need. Claims that rely on testimonials instead of science, use fear based messaging, or promote purchasing the company’s products as the solution are also signs to proceed with caution.
- Seek accurate, credible nutrition sources
✨ Team Member Spotlight: Sue North
Susan North is our amazing Dietitian at Ecumen Lakeshore in Duluth, and she has been a huge asset to our team for a little over four years. She will be retiring this spring, and while we will miss her greatly, we are incredibly excited for her as she enters this next chapter. Sue is our go to expert in diabetes education and brings a depth of experience and wisdom that strengthens our entire team. She has a truly special way of connecting with residents—advocating for their needs, taking time to listen, and ensuring they feel supported. Sue is also always looking for ways to improve processes and enhance the quality of care across her community.
This week, she’s highlighting a favorite recipe: Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili from the American Heart Association—a delicious, heart healthy dish we hope you’ll enjoy trying at home!


Serving as Corporate Dietician at Ecumen, Toni Swanson is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and a Board-Certified Specialist in Gerontological Nutrition with over a decade of experience working with older adults in long-term care and community settings. With a deep commitment to improving the quality of life for aging populations, Toni blends her clinical expertise in nutrition with a growing passion for clinical herbalism to support holistic well-being.
