This is a new weekly feature where Samantha summarizes a few interesting nutrition news tidbits you might have missed!
Are you following Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution?
http://www.herald-dispatch.com/life/schools/x874712454/Dietitian-Huntington-area-making-progress
It’s encouraging to hear the point of view of a local registered dietitian, particularly since I share her ideas. While I’m a fan of the impact Jamie Oliver intends to make on the school lunch program in Huntington, and eventually throughout the U.S., the changes are not as easy as he makes them seem. He’s shedding light on the multifaceted problems that need various and creative solutions. Kudos to Chef Jamie for getting the creative ball rolling while the nation is tuning in – and listening.
I admit that during last week’s episode, I cringed at the idea of tossing out all the flavored milk. Yes it has more sugar than plain milk, but providing it as another beverage option is helpful in seeking to meet the student’s nutrient needs. If the flavoring helps kids improve their calcium intake through milk, that’s a win in my book.
More on Oliver’s influence here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/04/20/AR2010042001181.html
Do you crave Reese’s Pieces While Watching E.T.?
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/20/health/20brod.html?ref=nutrition
As a fan of Jane Brody, I was curious to read yet another piece on the controversy surrounding food marketing to kids. We’re often so immune to the effect of marketing because we consume messages all day long. We clearly have our work cut out for us if we want to impart healthy eating attitudes to our kids. Here’s to paying more attention.
A Little Extra
Speaking of opinions on school lunch and childhood eating habits, check out the good points made by another Registered Dietitian, Stacie Haaga: http://livetoeat-blog.blogspot.com/2010/04/our-national-security-depends-on-school.html