Adolescent girls typically are very concerned about their body image. For some, this concern leads to extreme eating and/or exercise behavior. They may restrict the amount of food they eat and/or exercise several hours a day. For some, this may be a sign of an emerging eating disorder. These behaviors are easily overlooked, and many young people consciously keep their condition a secret from parents and friends.

Research shows that roughly 3% of adolescents struggle with some form of eating disorder, and 90% of those struggling are females (Haines & Neumark-Sztainer, 2006). Parents often are unaware of the problem until the condition seriously endangers their child’s health. This might be avoided if parents were aware of the physical and psychological warning signs of eating disorders.

• Signs may include excessive fear of weight gain, severe restriction in the type and amount of food eaten, a desire to eat alone, withdrawal from family and friends, and denial of bad eating habits (Treasure, Van Furth, & Schmidt, 2003). Physical signs include absence of the menstrual cycle, dry or brittle hair, tooth decay, decreased energy, and often, marked weight loss (Treasure et. al., 2003).

Fast intervention and treatment are keys to reducing long term health effects of eating disorders and increasing the chance of a full recovery. Parents who suspect that their child has an eating disorder should consult their primary care provider and ask for a referral to a mental health professional or an eating disorders team who will provide evaluation, diagnosis, and multi-disciplinary treatment. (Thompson, 1996).

Families that heed the warning signs and arrange for proper intervention and treatment can reduce the prolonged effects of eating disorders, and increase their child’s chance of a full recovery.

Listening, learning, and living together, it’s the science of life. “Family Album” is a co-production of University of Florida IFAS Extension, the Department of Family, Youth, and Community Sciences and of WUFT-FM. If you’d like to learn more, please visit our website at familyalbumradio.org.

• Podcast: Warnings signs of child/adolescent eating disorders, and treatment suggestions.


• Written by: Keri Pound & Amanda Mosher

References

Haines, J, Neumark-Sztainer, D. (2006). Prevention of obesity and eating disorders: a consideration of shared risk factors. Health Education Research, 1-13.

Thompson, K.J. (ed). (1996). Body image, eating disorders, and obesity: An integrative guide for assessment and treatment. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Treasure, J., Van Furth, E., & Schmidt, U. (eds). Handbook of eating disorders. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley and Sons.

Obesity is in the news just about every day, with concerns for family members from 5 to 105. But are the health risks the same for older and younger family members who carry excess weight, and is it appropriate for the elderly to try to lose excess body weight to improve health and quality of life?

First, obesity is on the rise among all people, including persons over 65 years old. Second, research shows that obesity can accelerate the decline in physical function seen in some older persons, potentially leading to a decline in quality of life including the ability to live independently. Also, although obese older adults may live as long as those at a healthier body weight, they are at higher risk for diabetes and other chronic diseases, and they spend considerably more on health care.

Some health professionals are reluctant to recommend weight loss for obese older adults due to concerns about potential adverse effects on muscle and bone mass. However, several studies have found that weight loss regimes can help older persons lose weight while improving physical function, quality of life, and medical conditions (like diabetes) that often are associated with obesity. To promote retention of muscle and bone mass, it is recommended that weight loss programs for older family members include weight-bearing exercise and adequate intake of protein, calcium and vitamin D.

Older adults who want to lose weight should first get a thorough medical check-up. If weight loss is recommended, they should choose a research-based weight management program, possibly offered by a local Extension office, or consult with a registered dietitian with weight management expertise.

Listening, learning and living together, it’s the science of life. “Family Album” is a co-production of University of Florida IFAS Extension, the Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences and of WUFT-FM. If you’d like to learn more, please visit our website at familyalbumradio.org.

Podcast: Weight Management in Older Adults
Written by: Linda Bobroff
Reviewed by: Donna Davis

References

Lakdawall DN, Goldman DP and Shang B. The health and cost consequences of obesity among the future elderly. Health Affairs. 2005 (Web exclusive) Available at: http://content.healthaffairs.org/cgi/content/full/hlthaff.w5.r30/DC1

Villareal DT, Apovian CM, Kushner RF and Klein S. Obesity in older adults: technical review and position statement of the American Society for Nutrition and NAASO, The Obesity Society. Am J Clin Nutr. 2005;82:923-34.

Other Papers of Interest

Manini TM, Everhart JE, Patel KV, Schoeller DA, Colbert LH, Visser M, Tylavsky F, Bauer DC, Goodpaster BH and Harris TB. Daily activity energy expenditure and mortality among older adults. JAMA. 2006;296:171-79.

In our fitness-conscious and competitive world, there are multitudes of self-styled nutrition “experts” who have plenty of advice to offer, many with a product to sell. For parents of athletes, the choices can be overwhelming as they seek to provide that competitive edge to their children through proper nutrition. If you’re packing for long days on soccer sidelines, wrestling mats, baseball fields, swimming pools, tracks or any number of strenuous sports activities for your children, knowing how to provide the right fuel throughout the day can be confusing!

According to nutrition experts, except for energy (calories) and water, nutritional needs are basically the same for people who exercise for fun and health, for athletes, and for those who are less active. Using MyPyramid as a guide to eating well for fitness and health can help parents provide their young athletes with good nutrition for training and competition. And, while well-nourished athletes don’t require supplements of protein, amino acids, vitamins, or ergogenic aides such as chromium or creatineas many marketers might have you believe, there are certain nutritional steps your young athlete can take to maximize his or her performance.

For starters, a high-carbohydrate diet provides energy for training and competition. By eating a high-carbohydrate diet each day, your child will have a ready supply of glucose when it’s needed. Likewise, make certain your athlete is well hydrated by consuming cool water before, during and after exercise. Dehydration decreases performance and can cause serious harm to the body. During intense exercise lasting longer than an hour, commercial sports drinks are even better than water as they replace the sodium and electrolytes lost during exercise. And, while these tips will help children during their sports activities, the same rules hold true for the adult athletes in your family!

Listening, learning and living together, it’s the science of life. “Family Album” is a co-production of University of Florida IFAS Extension, the Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences and of WUFT-FM. If you’d like to learn more, please visit our website at familyalbumradio.org.

Podcast: Food and fitness
Written by Linda Bobroff and Donna Davis
Reviewed by Suzanna Smith

Source

Bobroff, Linda B., “Food and Fitness: Myths and Truths” (2006) EDIS document FCS8100, one of a series of the Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Retrieved September 26, 2006 online at http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu

This article is a reprint of a National Diabetes Education fact sheet.

Winter is a season of holiday celebrations, football play-offs, and other occasions when family and friends get together over meals and snacks. For people with type 2 diabetes, it can be challenging to stick to a meal plan. Mouth-watering options such as honey-baked ham, buttery mashed potatoes, and sweet yams are popular for festive dinners, while chicken wings, cheesy nachos, and chips are among the favorites at football play-offs and other gatherings. However, you don’t have to completely sacrifice all of your favorite foods. The key is to make a variety of healthy food choices and limit portion sizes.

Follow these tips from the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) to help you eat healthy during gatherings throughout the winter season:

• Eat a healthy snack . Eating a healthy snack prior to leaving home can prevent overeating at the party.
  
• Plan ahead . Check out the party food options before you begin eating, and make a mental note of what and how much you will eat. Your food choices should fit into your meal plan.
• Bring a dish . Share your healthy dish with family and friends.
• Move away from the buffet . Fix your plate, and then step away from the table to avoid grazing while chatting.
  
• Savor the flavor . Eating slowly reduces your chances of overeating.
  
• Drink H 2 O . Water is a healthy, no-calorie beverage. Drink plenty of it.
  
• Trim it down . Eat smaller portions of food. Trim off extra skin and fat from meat.
  
• Party hard ! Focus on family, friends, and activities rather than food. Stay active by participating in games or dancing.
  

Follow these tips if your goal is to serve healthy feasts to your guests:

• Bake it . Broil it. Grill it. Consider healthy alternatives to traditional meats. Choose skinless meat or poultry and avoid fried dishes.
• Increase fiber . Serve whole grain breads, peas, and beans as part of your meals.
• Easy on the toppings . Lighten your recipes by using reduced-fat or fat-free mayonnaise, butter, sour cream, or salad dressing.
• Focus on fruits . Serve fresh or canned fruits instead of ice cream, cake, or pie. Transform high fat, high-calorie desserts by replacing whole milk or whipped cream with 1 percent or nonfat milk.
• Serve low-calorie beverages . Offer your guests sparkling water or diet beverages.
• We’re all in this together . Support your family and friends by encouraging them to eat healthy during the winter months and throughout the year.

To find out more information about the Control Your Diabetes. For Life. campaign and to order free materials and resources, visit them on the Web or contact the National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) at 1-800-438-5383.

For information about diabetes education classes that may be available in your area, contact your local county Extension office.

Several IFAS publications related to diabetes may be found in the EDIS Diabetes publication list.

Submitted by: Linda Bobroff, Ph.D., RD, LD/N, Professor, Food and Nutrition

Most women are concerned about their diet during pregnancy. For women with a vegan diet – one that omits ALL foods of animal origin – consuming adequate nutrients for themselves and their growing babies can be a challenge. Women who eat a diet that includes meat and dairy foods easily get the extra protein they need during pregnancy.

Vegans need to be sure to include soy products, which provide high quality protein along with calcium, another critical nutrient during pregnancy (Drake, 1998). Calcium is a concern because vegans don’t consume dairy products, the primary source of calcium in traditional Western diets (Drake, 1998). Calcium-fortified tofu and soy milk, dark green vegetables, and figs provide calcium, although it is recommended that if calcium intake is below 600 milligrams per day, a supplement with at least 500 milligrams of calcium should be taken (Insel, 2001). Four additional nutrients that may need to be taken as supplements are vitamin D, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 (Draper, 1993) since they are found primarily in animal products. One of the biggest concerns with a vegan pregnancy is vitamin B12, which is not found at all in plant sources (Craig, 2001), except in fortified cereals. Therefore it is essential that this vitamin be obtained in supplement form.

The key to a healthy pregnancy for all women is to follow lifestyle recommendations of their health care provider, including consumption of a wide variety of healthful foods. For vegans, combining this with a thorough knowledge of vegan nutrition and consultation with a Registered Dietitian will ensure that they get all the nutrients they require for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby (Beardsworth, 1991).

Listening, learning and living together, it’s the science of life. “Family Album” is a co-production of University of Florida IFAS Extension, the Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences and of WUFT-FM. If you’d like to learn more, please visit our website at familyalbumradio.org.

Sources

Beardsworth A, and Keil T. (1991).Vegetarianism, veganism and meat-avoidance: recent trends and findings. British Food Journal 93: 19-24

Craig W and Pinyan L .(2001). Nutrients of concern in vegetarian diets. In: Vegetarian Nutrition, (J. Sabate ed.), pp. 299-332. CRC Press, Boca Raton.

Drake R, Reddy S, and Davies J. (1998). Nutrient intake during pregnancy and pregnancy outcome of lactoovo-vegetarians, fish-eaters, and non-vegetarians. Vegetarian Nutrition, 2: 45-52.

Draper A, Lewis J, Malhotta N et al. (1993). The energy and nutrient intakes of different types of vegetarians: a case for supplements? British Journal of Nutrition 69: 3-19.

Fisher, Mary. Midwifery Today with International Midwife. Eugene: Dec 31, 1999., lss. 52; pg. 30

Insel, Paul, Turner, R. Elaine, Ross, Don. (2001) Nutrition. Boston: Jones and Bartlett Publishers, p. 557.

Podcast: Vegan diets during pregnancy

Written by: Ariadna M. Rodriguez

Reviewed by Linda Bobroff

This is a list of new and recently revised publications from our Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences. These publications cover a wide range of topics: preventing falls, body image, missing children, diabetes as well as identifying accurate, reliable internet resources on health, nutrition and food safety topics.

Prevencion de Caidas: Quien esta a riesgo?

FCS2227-Span, a 1-page quiz by Sergio Romero, is a Spanish language version of "Fall Prevention: Who's at Risk?" Readers can take this yes-or-no quiz to determine if they are at high risk of falling. Published as part of the Elder Nutrition and Food Safety (ENAFS) program by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, May 2006.

Prevencion de Caidas: Soluciones Para su Casa

FCS2228-Span, a 1-page fact sheet by Leigh Ann Martin, is the Spanish language version of "Fall Prevention: Solutions for the Home," which lists home modifications that can be made to meet the needs created by the physical challenges of ageing. Published as part of the Elder Nutrition and Food Safety (ENAFS) program by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, May 2006.

Prevencion de Caidas: Seguridad en el Hogar

FCS2229-Span, a 1-page inventory by Leigh Ann Martin, is a Spanish Language version of "Fall Prevention: Home Safety Inventory." It can be used to find areas in the home which can increase the risk of dangerous falls as people age, and to improve safety in those areas. Published as part of the Elder Nutrition and Food Safety (ENAFS) program by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, May 2006.

Prevencion de Caidas: Estilos de Vida y Riesgo de Caidas

FCS2230-Span, a 1-page fact sheet by Jennifer Hillan, is the Spanish Language version of "Fall Prevention: Lifestyle Factors and Fall Risk." It describes things that may cause people to fall and some easy changes they can make to decrease their risk of falling. Published as part of the Elder Nutrition and Food Safety (ENAFS) program by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, October 2004, revised May 2006.

Prevencion de Caidas: Reducir los Riesgos!

FCS2231, a 1-page fact sheet by Jennifer Hillan, is the Spanish Language version of "Fall Prevention: Reduce Your Risk!" It is a crossword puzzle to help participants find out how much they know about lifestyle factors that affect their risk of falling. Published as part of the Elder Nutrition and Food Safety (ENAFS) program by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, October 2004, revised May 2006.

Prevencion de Caidas: Mantenerse Activo

FCS2232-Span, a 4-page fact sheet by Sergio Romero, is the Spanish Language version of "Fall Prevention: Staying Active." It describes directions for several exercises which can help people maintain or improve balance, strength, and flexibility. Published as part of the Elder Nutrition and Food Safety (ENAFS) program by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, May 2006.

Prevencion de Caidas: Como Manejar una Caida

FCS2233, a 1-page fact sheet by Linda Bobroff and Leigh Ann Martin, is the Spanish Language version of "Fall Prevention: How to Handle a Fall." It gives steps to follow to decrease the chance of further injury after a fall, including line dwarings showing how to pull oneself onto a chair. Published as part of the Elder Nutrition and Food Safety (ENAFS) program by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, May 2006.

Improving Your Body Image: Tips for Individuals, Families, and Professionals

FCS2253, a 2-page fact sheet by Eboni J. Baugh, encourages readers to enhance their views of themselves and their bodies and suggests ways that readers can work toward a healthy, balanced body image. Especially relevant for teens. Published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, October 2006.

Missing Children: Incidences and Characteristics of Runaway Children and Resources Available to Them

FCS-2254, a 5-page fact sheet by Stacy Daniels and M.A. Brennan, is the first in a two-part series focusing on missing children. This paper takes a close look at runaways: who they are, the scope of the problem, and what professionals can do to help. It also considers the related problem of throwaways: children who have been abandoned or forced to leave their homes. Includes resource list and references. Published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, October 2006.

Missing Children: Kidnapped and Abducted Children and Resources Available to Parents and the Community

FCS-2256, a 5-page fact sheet by Stacy Daniels and M.A. Brennan, is the second in a two-part series focusing on missing children. This final installment considers children who have been abducted. Readers will learn about different types of abductions (family, nonfamily, and kidnapping) and find out how common each type is. This paper also provides information on some of the resources available for families, community leaders, and extension agents and tips on how to prevent abductions in any community. Published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, October 2006.

Vida Saludable para Personas de Edad: La Diabetes (3-pg fact sheet)

Revised! FCS8574-Span, a 3-page fact sheet by Linda B. Bobroff, Karla P. Shelnutt, and Paulina Wittkowsky, is the Spanish language version of Healthy Living for Elders: Diabetes. It answers several frequently asked questions about diabetes. This version is updated throughout with new clip art and a table showing healthy weight ranges. Published as part of the Elder Nutrition and Food Safety (ENAFS) program by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, February 2006.

Identifying Accurate Internet Resources for Nutrition, Food Safety, and Health Demonstrations

FCS-8797, a 4-page fact sheet by Amy Simonne and Linda B. Bobroff, aims to assist 4-H county faculty and volunteers in directing youth to accurate, research-based sources of information on nutrition, food safety, and health. Published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, October 2006. (Also included in the 4-H and Youth New Publications mailing)

Healthy Living for Elders: Checking Blood Glucose

FCS8811, a 2-page fact sheet by Jennifer Hillan, is for people living with diabetes. It describes who needs to check blood glucose levels, how to do it, and when to do it. A chart is provided for keeping track of readings. Published as part of the Elder Nutrition and Food Safety (ENAFS) program by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, October 2006.

Attention all parents of young children and teens!

What are you serving your children to meet their calcium needs? Just about everyone knows that milk and equivalent milk products are an important source of calcium. You know how important calcium is for building strong bones and teeth.

Are you helping your children build strong bones and teeth? Children from 2 to 8 years old should have two cups of milk every day. Older children and teens should have three cups of milk every day for the calcium that milk provides. Milk is also an important source of vitamin A, vitamin D, potassium, and magnesium.

Milk products are an important part of a healthful diet. Put some in your grocery cart today.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans urge us to meet our nutrient needs primarily through the foods that we eat. Choose fat-free or lowfat milk or milk products. Examples of these are fat-free yogurt and lowfat cheeses.

You will never get enough milk in the meals and snacks for your children if you don't put it in your grocery cart. This is a change you may need to do gradually. By the way, don't forget to buy enough for the adults! Everyone needs the important cacium and other nutrients provided by foods in the milk group.

Go for it!

Buy milk! Take it home and refrigerate it. Serve it at meals. Serve it as snacks. Encourage your family to drink milk by drinking milk yourself. You need it too. Cut down on the sweetened beverages in your grocery cart and add more milk. You can do it. Please remember: don't just choose any milk product. Put lowfat or fat-free products in your shopping cart.

Contributed by: Glenda L. Warren, MS, RD, CFCS, Associate Professor, Extension Nutritionist-Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)

Going to the dentist to get a cavity filled is not a fun experience for adults or children. Dental work can be costly and occasionally painful. The good news is that there are good nutritional habits your family can practice to decrease the risk for cavities, also known as dental caries.

Eating a balanced diet will provide the nutrients necessary to keep teeth strong and healthy. For example, milk is not only a great source of calcium but decreases the risk for dental caries when consumed with foods. Also, limit the frequency of snacks and sweetened beverages between meals to decrease the number of times the bacteria in the oral cavity can produce acids that cause dental caries. If snacks are consumed, brush the teeth, rinse with water or chew sugar-free gum to neutralize the acids formed by the bacteria.

Stay away from slowly dissolving, sugar-containing candies that remain in the mouth for a long period of time. Even healthy foods like dried fruits can promote dental decay because sticky foods remain on the teeth longer, so make sure your children brush after a sticky snack.

Incorporating these simple habits into the diet in addition to keeping good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing and using a fluoridated toothpaste will help decrease the number of cavities and can potentially save your family pain and money. This can bring a smile to anyone’s face.

Listening, learning and living together, it’s the science of life. “Family Album” is a co-production of University of Florida IFAS Extension, the Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences and of WUFT-FM. If you’d like to learn more, please visit our website at familyalbumradio.org.

Listen to the Podcast: How Nutrition Affects Oral Health

Written by Karla P. Shelnutt

Reviewed by Linda Bobroff and Donna Davis

As we’ve learned over the past couple of years, disaster can strike anyone, anywhere and anytime. A natural disaster, whether hurricane, tornado, flood, or tsunami, can devastate areas and leave families without resources, sometimes for long periods of time. And, while people of all ages suffer, infants can be at far greater risk. However, mothers can save their infants’ lives and protect them from illness by simply breastfeeding… even if they haven’t been breastfeeding their baby.

While medical and nutrition experts have long supported breastfeeding as the optimal way to nourish an infant, during disasters when the risk of contaminated water increases dramatically, breastfeeding can be even more critical. Breastmilk protects infants from respiratory illnesses and diarrhea, problems that can become fatal to a vulnerable infant displaced by disaster. According to Lawrence Gartner, chair of the Section on Breastfeeding of the American Academy of Pediatrics, breastfeeding can also “promote psychological health and comfort during stressful times. Human milk reduces pain and promotes more rapid healing after injuries and infections.”

Even mothers who have not been breastfeeding can start, up to 6 months after giving birth. According to the La Leche League, if a mother has given birth within five days, she “can have a full milk supply quickly by breastfeeding the baby, every two to three hours or more frequently.” Even up to six MONTHS after giving birth, a mother can relactate!

Breastmilk is 87% water, so mom should be sure stay hydrated to ensure adequate milk production! For more information on breastfeeding during emergencies go to our website at familyalbumradio.org or to lalecheleague.org.

Listening, learning and living together, it’s the science of life. “Family Album” is a co-production of University of Florida IFAS Extension, the Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences and of WUFT-FM.

Listen to the Podcast: Breastfeeding During Disaster

Written by: Donna Davis

References

“La Leche League Answers Questions about Breastfeeding in Emergencies” retrieved June 18, 2006 from http://www.lalecheleague.org/emergencyfaq.html

“When an Emergency Strikes Breastfeeding Can Save Lives, Part 2” Retrieved June 18, 2006 from http://www.lalecheleague.org/Release/emergency2.html

“Disaster or Emergency Preparedness for Women” retrieved June 20, 2006 from http://www.4woman.gov/tools/disaster.cfm

A Snack Attack is likely to hit as soon as children get home from school. Plan and have ready-to-eat foods that fit into a healthy eating plan. This means plan snacks that help get the recommended daily amounts from each of the main food groups:

• Grains
• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Milk
• Meat and Beans Group

Let us think about some snack ideas from the Fruit Group.

Most people need to eat more fruit, especially whole fruit or cut-up fruit. MyPyramid recommends whole fruit instead of fruit juice for most of your fruit choices. Whole or cut up fruit provides fiber in addition to the vitamins and minerals found in fruit juice.

Try these ideas:

• Fresh fruit available in the crisper in the refrigerator
  • Grapes, kiwi, plums, peaches, pears, strawberries, or tangerines
• Fresh fruit available in a bowl on the table or counter
  • Apples, bananas, nectarines, oranges, pears
• Fresh fruit already cut-up and available in the refrigerator
  • Cantaloupe, mangos, or pineapple
  • Always keep cut fruit in the refrigerator
• Single servings of fruit created at home and refrigerated in individual containers.
  • This could be a mixture of fresh, dried, canned and/or frozen fruit.
• Single servings of fruit purchased in cans, cartons, or plastic containers.
  • Applesauce, apple chunks, peaches, raisins, pineapple or mixed fruit
• Single servings of dried fruit, divided at home, or purchased in individual packages:
  • Apples, apricots, peaches, raisins, or plums.
• Chilled fruit salad as a special treat. Have it waiting in the refrigerator!
  • Remember: always keep cut fruit refrigerated.

These are just a few of the many ideas that you can consider. Think about your budget, schedule and nutritional needs of your children to plan a snack idea. Remember, ideas for health wise snacks also include food choices that help get the daily-recommended amounts from the other major food groups as well. The main idea is to have available those foods that help your children to get the best nutrition.

Submitted by: Glenda Warren, Associate Professor, Foods and Nutrition/EFNEP

back-to-school, snacks, nutrition, fruit

USDA Launches Brand New Web Pages for Kids and Parents

What should kids and parents eat and do for good health? The answer is just a “click” away at USDA’s new Eat Smart. Play Hard.™ web pages for kids and parents. The kids’ web page provides interactive learning and skill-building experiences in a virtual community setting.

The web page encourages and motivates kids to make better lifestyle choices using kid-friendly entertaining techniques. In others words, the web page is fun! Kids can follow Power Panther, the campaign spokescharacter, in exploring the Power Tunes Store, Theater, Fitness Center, Eat Smart Grill, Fun Times Arcade and Travel Center. Behind each door in this virtual community, kids learn healthy lifestyle skills through geography, music, reading and science activities. Kids can have lots of fun with the songs, experiments, activity sheets, comics, games, e-cards, recipes and other materials. Discover the Eat Smart. Play Hard.™ kids’ web page at: Eat Smart. Play Hard: Kids

Parents and other caregivers can find answers to questions on how to improve their family’s health by going to the Healthy Lifestyle web page at: Eat Smart. Play Hard: Healthy Lifestyle.. Some of the resources on the web page include: tasty, low cost menus and recipes, a handy Calorie Burner Chart, ways to track progress, and smart planning and shopping tips. There is an answer to the commonly asked question “How much do I need to eat?” and lots of ideas for making family time a physically active time. The web page also gives parents a list of quick and easy ways to get started, including ideas for breakfasts, eating out and being more physically active every day. Information on both sites can help kids and parents make the MyPyramid and Dietary Guidelines for Americans a part of their everyday life.

Additional Resources

MyPyramid Materials

USDA, health, nutrition, children, families, parenting, exercise

How to Help Your Kids Eat Breakfast from the Florida Department of Education, offers information on getting your child off to a healthy start to the day with breakfast.

Did you know that many school districts in Florida offer free breakfast for all children, regardless of income? Contact your local school district for more information.

Resources From The Florida Department of Education

Student Nutrition

Parent Nutrition

back-to-school, breakfast, Florida

For sandwich variety, try various types of breads, pita, bagels, tortillas, flat bread and crackers. Gradually move toward whole grain foods if they are new to your child. New varieties of whole grain bread are lighter in color and texture and may appeal to children.

To pack a nutritional punch in sandwich spreads (such as tuna fish, egg salad, and even reduced-fat cream cheese), add finely minced (food processor works great) carrots and celery.

When including lettuce leaves (the darker the better!) and/or tomato slices for sandwiches, pack them separate from the sandwich so it does not get soggy by the time lunchtime rolls around.

Peanut butter is a quick, easy, healthful (in moderation), and popular sandwich choice. Use whole grain bread, and add sliced banana, fruit preserves, or honey and a thin slice of Muenster, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella cheese to your child’s favorite peanut butter. (Check that your child’s school does not have a peanut butter ban in place due to allergies.)

At the grocery store, let your children pick out fresh fruits and veggies for their lunch boxes – a great time to teach them about buying “in season” and buying locally (where possible).

Include a small bag or plastic container of one or more cut up fresh vegetables in your child’s lunch box. Veggies that travel well include carrots, celery sticks, whole string beans, bell pepper slices (red, yellow and orange varieties are great, but usually expensive), grape or cherry tomatoes (fruits that we eat as vegetables), and pea pods. A separate container of low-fat dressing may be included if your child likes it.

Include low-fat or fat-free milk in your child’s lunch box, preferably in a reusable plastic container. You can freeze a half-full container of milk overnight and fill it with cold milk in the morning. The frozen milk will keep the food safe until lunchtime.

Buy a few plastic containers to use for fresh veggies, berries, dried fruit, milk, juice, and other take-along foods for lunch boxes. They are reusable and help teach the value of preserving our resources.

Purchase a variety of healthy breakfast bars that contain at least three grams of fiber and that are low in fat. Include one of these bars in your child’s lunch box some days. Your child can eat it as an extra treat during lunch, or keep it for a snack later in the day.

If your children purchase school lunches, ask them occasionally what they selected at school that day. Asking casually will help you avoid a confrontation, although if they are choosing pizza, French fries, and a sweet drink every day, you may have some cause for concern!

Find out what foods your child’s school cafeteria serves. If you are not satisfied with the foods available to your child, get involved in the school’s wellness council or other group that can affect policy.

Additional Resources

Note: These resources contain links to Web sites created and maintained by other private and public organizations. UF/IFAS provides these links as a service to our users; the presence of a link does not indicate endorsement of all materials and views found on these Web sites.

National School Lunch Program Web site

School Lunches, KidsHealth

Back to School Lunchbox Makeovers, Center for Science in the Public Interest

Written by: Linda Bobroff, Ph.D., RD, LD/N, Professor, Food and Nutrition

lunch, back-to-school, nutrition, tips, parenting

Listen to the podcast: Warning Signs of Anorexia
Written by: Jacqueline Endaya
Reviewed by: Linda Bobroff

With concerns about childhood obesity on the rise, the plight of young people with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa may not be on many people’s minds. However, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, between 5 and 10 million people, including about 1% of American teens, have an eating disorder (Collins, 2004). Anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder characterized by excessive weight loss and severely distorted body image, is one of the most common psychiatric diagnoses in young women (Dubé, 2001).

Often, parents and friends fail to recognize warning signs of anorexia. Teens with anorexia may comment about feeling “fat” or overweight, although they actually are losing weight. They may become preoccupied with food, calories, fat grams, and dieting. Parents may find it difficult to get them to participate in family meals, and when they do they tend to eat very little, and will chew excessively and rearrange food on their plate. Teens with anorexia will often withdraw from friends, family, and activities, and may exercise for hours at a time.

Early identification and treatment of anorexia nervosa are essential to avoid serious health effects and even death. Parents who suspect that their teen has an eating disorder should ask their family physician or pediatrician for a referral to a child and adolescent psychiatrist. Treatment usually involves a team of physicians, therapists, and nutritionists, who provide counseling, nutrition therapy, and medication (Segal, 2004). The most important thing that family and friends can offer a person dealing with anorexia is unconditional love.

References

1. Collins, Harper. (July, 2004). Teenagers with eating disorders. Retrieved July20, 2006, from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

2. Dubé, Benoit, M.D. (Jan, 2001, updated June 2004 ). Anorexia nervosa. Retrieved July 20, 2006

3. Segal, Jeanne, Ph.D. (March, 2004 modified May 23, 2006). Anorexia: signs, symptoms, causes, effects and treatments.

Resources

WomensHealth.gov Loving Your Body Inside and Out: Eating Disorders

National Eating Disorders Association

Listening, learning and living together, it's the science of life. "Family Album" is a co-production of University of Florida IFAS Extension, the Department of Family, Youth and Community Services of WUFT-FM. If you'd like to learn more, please visit our website at familyalbumradio.org.

anorexia, childhood obesity, nutrition, parenting, eating disorders

Listen to the podcast: Dark Chocolate Benefits
Written by: Sherri Gampel
Reviewed by: Linda Bobroff

I live with a family of self-proclaimed “chocoholics.” My husband and daughter can’t get it chocolate enough. If you or your family members love chocolate, you know it’s hard to deny a craving. Still, you can’t help but be concerned about the effect of how something so sweet might impact your family’s health. Well, guess what… you’re in luck! Chocolate lovers, especially those at risk for developing type II diabetes or hypertension, may now have a great reason to indulge in this guilty pleasure.

A recent study conducted by the American Society for Clinical Nutrition tested the effects of dark and white chocolate in healthy adults to determine whether either type played a role in blood pressure and insulin sensitivity. They concluded that chocolate can indeed help reduce blood pressure and insulin resistance, but only dark chocolate bars seem to provide these health benefits. This is due to the fact that dark chocolate is rich in flavanols, antioxidant compounds found in many fruits and vegetables that have been shown to lower the risk of heart disease. These flavanols therefore make dark chocolate a great solution to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Although dark chocolate has these health benefits, some dark chocolate bars may be high in saturated fats and cholesterol, so moderation is key. It is important to keep in mind that dark chocolate cannot substitute for everyday healthy food choices such as whole grains, and fruits and vegetables that provide a whole range of vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, as well as dietary fiber. Nor can it replace regular exercise or medications that have been prescribed by your physician. Nonetheless, it’s nice to know your family can indulge in chocolate cravings every so often, and you don’t have to feel guilty about it!

Listening, learning and living together, it's the science of life. "Family Album" is a co-production of University of Florida IFAS Extension, the Department of Family, Youth and Community Services of WUFT-FM. If you'd like to learn more, please visit our website at familyalbumradio.org.

Resources

Grassi, D., Lippi, C., Necozione, S., Desideri, G., & Ferri, C. (2005). Short-term administration of dark chocolate is followed by a significant increase in insulin sensitivity and a decrease in blood pressure in healthy persons. American Society for Clinical Nutrition, 81, 611-614.

Grassi, D., Necozione, S., Lippi, C., Croce, G., Valeri, L., Pasqualetti, P., et al. (2005). Cocoa Reduces Blood Pressure and Insulin Resistance and Improves Endothelium-Dependent Vasodilatation in Hypertensives. Hypertension: The American Heart Association, 46(2), 398.

chocolate, chocolate day, dark chocolate, health, nutrition, diet, diabetes

“If you don’t like canned spinach now,” she said, “you won’t want to eat it when your roof is leaking and a tree is down in your yard.”

If there’s no power or running water for cooking, a steady diet of candy, chips and take-out fast food might seem appealing – not to mention easy – but focusing on healthy foods will help you weather the crisis better, said Linda Bobroff, a professor with UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

“Good nutrition is especially important when you’re recovering from a disaster,” Bobroff said. “To cope with high levels of physical activity and discomfort, you need to provide your body with appropriate amounts of all the nutrients, including water, protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.”

It’s important to find healthy items your family likes, Bobroff said. If you’re not sure whether to include a food in your disaster supplies, try serving it for dinner first.

Read More

MyPyramid, hurricanes, Florida, nutrition, disaster preparedness, food pyramid