Providing accurate scientific information on nutrition and dietary guidance is critical to the public's ability to make the right choices in the effort to curb obesity and other food related diseases. Federally supported research shows that weight loss is a major concern for the U.S. population.
Surveys consistently reveal that most adults are trying to lose or maintain weight.
The prevalence of overweight and obese adults and children has escalated steadily over the past 30 years. Currently, as many as half of all adult Americans are considered overweight or obese and childhood obesity has doubled in the past twenty years. Important information that can be used in the treatment and prevention of disease will be available on the website, which will serve as a comprehensive and reliable source of information on nutrition and dietary guidance with an extensive interactive scientific reference section. Additionally, this new online resource includes specialized nutrition information for infants and children, adult women and men, and seniors. The website also links to information about nutrition and food assistance programs including the Food Stamp Program, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, and the School Lunch and Breakfast programs and to federally supported research, reports, and brochures as well as funding opportunities in the government.