An area health department releases a reminder about the importance of nutrition in conjunction with National Nutrition Month.

The full release from the Taney County Health Department is below:

When Popeye the Sailor Man ate his daily helping of spinach, he gained the strength he needed to save the day. In the same way, a nutritious diet is a powerful tool that helps keep people healthy and strong. March is National Nutrition Month, and this year’s theme is, “Discover the Power of Nutrition.” At the Taney County Health Department, the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program empowers families in Taney County to make healthy food choices. 

Tammy Drake, WIC Program Manager at the Taney County Health Department, highlights the importance of this theme: "We served 17,130 participants in our WIC program in the year 2025. We work every day to help families discover the importance of nutrition and implement healthy eating habits. Food is fuel for people of all ages.” 

Here are a few ways to unlock the power of healthy eating habits: 
• Choose healthy foods from every food group. These groups include vegetables, fruits, grains, lean 
protein foods, and low-fat/fat free dairy. 
• Alternate your food choices for a variety of nutrients. Choosing different foods throughout the 
week can benefit your body. 
• Learn about community resources that offer access to healthy foods, such as the Supplemental 
Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Women Infants and Children (WIC), and local food 
pantries. 

TCHD features a team of highly qualified WIC nutritionists. They may not have Popeye’s super strength, but they are dedicated to helping families make healthier choices, even on a budget. The WIC program provides nutrition guidance and essential resources to support pregnant women, babies, and children up to age five. 

TCHD wants to help you and your family make healthy choices during National Nutrition Month and throughout the rest of the year. For more information, contact the Taney County Health Department at 417-334-4544, visit our website at www.taneyhealth.gov, or like our Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X pages.