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HEALTHY EATING
IN SCHOOLS
At the start of the
2011 school year, the state is already looking ahead to September 2012.
According to the Boston Parents Paper, a new nutrition law approved in
July will focus on improving the health and nutrition of foods sold or provided
in schools (except food that is part of the federal nutrition program). Here are
a few of the highlights:
- Only 100% fruit or
vegetable juice, no added sugar
- Juice cannot be more
than 4 oz. per serving
- No more than 35% of
calories can be from fat –only 10% saturated
- No
trans-fats
- No more than 35% of
calories from sugars
- All breads/grains
must be whole grain
- No artificial
sweeteners
In addition, the
September 2011 article explains that more schools are moving towards non-food-based celebrations “in response to a growing obesity epidemic, an increase in
allergies, and recognition that these constant mini-parties can be disruptive to
learning.” In an effort to create new traditions, classrooms are acknowledging
birthdays by decorating the birthday child’s chair, handing out a “no-homework”
pass, or providing a pencil or eraser to classmates.
September is Childhood
Obesity Awareness Month and a great time to start the year off with healthy
snacks and lots of physical activity--or combine the two and take the family
apple picking. Check out geopalz.com with your kids if they need
encouragement to get moving.
Something
you want to see featured? Let us know! We welcome your feedback at stephmd@rcn.com!
The
mission of the Health & Wellness Committee is to educate and inspire
children and their families to create fitness and nutritional habits now that
will optimize their well being and instill a lifelong commitment to health.
New
members always welcome! Questions? Contact Stephanie Howard at stephmd@rcn.com.
This
information is provided by the Health & Wellness Committee, and does not
necessarily reflect the views of the PTO or the American Academy
of Pediatrics.
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