A proper nutrition diet for school based children Elle Rivera
National 1946 National School Lunch Program (NSLP) A federal government child nutrition program that has set standards set by the USDA base on the Dietary Requirments for Americans.
Competitive Foods Schools often have second options for lunch that are chosen over the NSLP by the students. Examples are vending machines, snack bars, and pizza sales.
School Meals Schools have the power to reduce the number of over weight and obese children by promoting exercise and a proper nutrition. School lunches are an important factor in promoting healthy eating habits.
Nutritious enough?
School lunches are often made of processed food that are high in fat, sugar and salt Snacks such as chips, ice cream, and candy are offered daily Not many options of fruits and vegetables Water is not usually offered as a beverage option Answer: NO!
A Balanced Meal
Components of a meal Proteins Provides structure to bone, muscle, and skin Source: Meat, eggs, beans
Carbohydrates main energy source for all cellular functions Source: sugars from fruits, grains and starchy vegetables
Lipids Energy yielding nutrient. Lipids are also used for cushion and shock absorber. Source: foods that contain unsaturated fats
Vitamins A, D, E, K, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, and Folate; have many different important functions in the body Source: A variety of foods
Minerals Calcium, fluoride, iodine, iron, potassium etc.; have many different important functions in the body Source: A variety of foods
Water Water is used in cells, organs, and tissues to help regulate the body's temperature and to maintain bodily functions Source: Fluids and food that contain water
Changes In School Lunch Do away with competitive foods Snacks should no longer be offered More vegetables and fruits Milk should be changed from whole milk to 2% and skim
Water should be offered as a beverage No more processed foods Whole wheat bread no white bread Lean meats
Nutritious enough?
YES!
These changes will give a proper nutrition diet for all school aged children. Hopefully they will continue a healthy diet with the comprehensive health education the physical education department provide.
References Usda.gov Usda.gov Nslp.org Nslp.org Choosemyplate.gov Choosemyplate.gov