William Atkins
Thursday, 01 October 2009 19:46
Science -
Health
Page 2 of 3
Dr. William H. Dietz, director of the Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity at the CDC, stated just how important a diet of fruits and veggetables is for children and young adults,
“A diet high in fruits and vegetables is important for optimal child growth, maintaining a healthy weight, and prevention of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and some cancers, all of which currently contribute to health care costs in the United States."
He adds,
"This report will help states determine what is taking place in their communities and schools and come up with ways to encourage people to eat more fruits and vegetables.”
[Fruits come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, such as pears (as shown), apples, strawberries, bananas, and blueberries--but they are all nutritious. Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net.]
According to the CDC report, three areas need to be addressed in the United States with respect to healthier eating. These areas are (1) healthier food retail, (2) Availability of Healthier Foods in Schools, and (3) Food System Support.
The CDC went into more detail about these three critical areas of healthy eating for all Americans:
Healthier Food Retail: Retailers, such as supermarkets and grocery stores that stock a variety of high–quality fruits and vegetables are a critical asset for the health of residents.
• Only eight states have a policy for healthier food retail improvements, which can help increase the number of full–service grocery stores in areas where they are unavailable, increase the availability of healthier foods in small food stores, and promote healthier foods through information at the point of purchase.
Availability of Healthier Foods in Schools: Schools are in a unique position to influence and promote fruit and vegetable intake among youth, school staff, parents, and other community members.
• Only 1 in 5 (21 percent) middle and high schools offer fruits and non–fried vegetables in vending machines, school stores or snack bars.
• 21 states have a policy to support farm–to–school programs that can increase access to fruits and vegetables as well as teach school children about nutrition and agriculture.
Page three concludes with the third key area.
