new ADA guidelines for kids

Food for Thought:

This past June, the American Dietetic Association (ADA) issued new nutrition guidelines for children ages 2–11 years to help end the obesity epidemic affecting today’s youth. The position statement reviewed what American kids are eating; explored new trends in food and nutrient intakes; and assessed the quality and impact of the nation’s school lunch programs. It also made specific recommendations for parents, teachers, and food and other health professionals involved in the fight against childhood obesity. Here is a synopsis of those recommendations, which appeared in the June issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association:

• Support and promote the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for healthy children over age 2.

• Support and promote use of the USDA’s MyPyramid for Kids plan.

• Support and promote implementation of the 2005 Dietary Guidelines in school meal plans.

• Support and promote healthful dietary patterns among children of different ethnic groups, taking into consideration different cultural and regional differences.

• Support the availability of healthy foods and beverages served or sold in schools.

• Develop and implement educational programs for doctors, teachers, parents and caregivers.

• Advocate increased federal and state funding for kids’ nutrition programs.

• Build alliances with other health groups that cater to children.

• Support more scientific research on kids’ nutrition, and support community legislation and efforts to improve kids’ health.

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