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Nutrition Philosophy
We embrace a nutrition approach that encourages individuals to eat moderate portion
sizes of a wide variety of foods. Instructional materials and communications are
based on the 2005 Dietary Guidelines and USDA's MyPyramid food guidance system.
In particular, we encourage dietary patterns that emphasize those nutrient-rich
food choices that are often under-consumed: low-fat dairy, whole grains, fruits
and vegetables.
We believe that all foods can be part of healthful eating when managed for
variety, moderation, and proportionality. We do not support labeling individual
foods as "good" or "bad." We recognize that favorite foods, regardless of fat or
calorie content, can be part of a balanced diet when using the above principles.
We value individual choice and recognize that there are multiple factors influencing
food decisions, including taste, family and cultural traditions.
We believe that 30 to 60 minutes of daily physical activity, along with a nutritious
diet, enhances one's overall health and well-being. Physically active individuals
are more able to maintain their body weight and enjoy more flexibility in food choices.
We believe that parents are the most important influence in their children's lives
and have primary responsible for establishing positive attitudes toward food and
developing healthy eating habits.
We believe that sharing family meals on a regular basis, improves the diet and health
of children and adolescents. Family meals are an important aspect of people's lives
since they build and sustain cultural and family traditions.
Education Philosophy
We value our ability to help people improve their health at the key times in their
life when they are the most open to making change. Our programs target children
at key developmental stages and adults at critical times in their lives when eating
and lifestyle habits are most likely to be re-evaluated.
We strive to be on the leading edge in applying the latest, proven educational methodologies.
Our programs are based on a problem solving model that supports behavior change.
Our programs include learning strategies that are consistent with recent brain research
on effective learning. We believe that truly effective nutrition education works
best when individuals are educated to make the best food choices for themselves
and their families, and can clearly see how to put their choices into action.
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