AUGUST 2011
OBESITY:
The United States Department of Health & Human Services has posted these statistics. Obesity has increased rapidly in the US. Since 1970, the percentage of children who are overweight has more than doubled and the percentage of overweight adolescents has tripled. This rise affects children, adolescents, and adults of all ethnicities and income levels.
A poor diet combined with lack of physical activity can negatively impact our ability to concentrate, our performance, and motivation.
FOOD PYRAMID:
June 2, 2011 the US Agriculture relegated its famous food pyramid to history. In its place we will be seeing an easier guide to the types and amounts of foods we should be including in our diets every day. Named My Plate, the new guide divides a typical plate into four portions: fruit, vegetables (which together take up half of the plate), protein, and whole grains. A small circle sitting beside the plate represents dairy products. The Agriculture Department has created a web site, ChooseMyPlate.com that elaborates on the guidance reflected in the plate’s design. It includes tip sheets with recommendations for a healthy diet.
Have a happy active summer
Jackie Hoover, Parish Nurse