While great progress has been made to improve the nutritional value of school meals, the nutritional status of children still remains an area of concern. In comments to Committee Chairman Senator Richard Lugar, ADA expressed its support for a coordinated, comprehensive approach to child health in schools. At the same time, however, the prevalence of overweight and obesity has risen sharply, with no signs of reversal. In addition, an increase in the development of Type II diabetes among teens has accompanied the rise in obesity. And as health professionals, we know that it is far easier and less costly to prevent obesity than it is to attempt to treat it.
Schools develop coordinated, comprehensive approach to child health.
This includes integration of nutrition education into the school curriculum at all ages, with linkages to community and school health promotion efforts. Nutrition education is critical to the development of lifelong, healthful eating habits in school-aged children and adolescents. Present children with meal and snack choices that enable them to learn about and to select foods that contribute to a healthy diet and help maintain a healthy weight. ADA recognizes that school meals are a primary component of children s nutritional health. Provide physical activity education in all schools to help children understand and accept that daily activity is an important part of a healthful lifestyle.