FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER 916.263.3560 commngr(###)dairycouncilofca.org

Sacramento, CA—November 14, 2006 – Did you know that enjoying healthy meals as a family can actually reduce your child’s risk of developing diabetes and other health risks and complications? Diabetes, which leads to other health risks and complications, is twice as common among Hispanic Americans than among Caucasian Americans, according to the American Diabetes Association.

Currently, 2 million Hispanics have diabetes and more than 60 percent are overweight. With obesity a leading factor in developing diabetes, such prominent health concerns make it crucial for children to develop good eating habits early in life. Eating meals together as a family might be the best way for parents to keep track of their kids eating habits.

“With today’s families having less time together due to more mothers in the workplace and busier schedules overall, making every effort to have family meals at home will allow parents to not only watch what their kids eat, but also give parents the opportunity to act as role models, which can be a very effective tool in keeping kids healthy,” said Monica Montes, R.D., and spokeswoman for Dairy Council of California.

Recent research has found the same – parents, especially mothers, hold a strong influence over their children when it comes to acquiring healthy eating habits. When parents eat healthy foods and lead active lifestyles, their children are more likely to follow suit.

Montes also suggests baking or grilling meats and vegetables instead of frying them, or serving kids low-fat milk instead of soda to boost nutrients and help eliminate extra sugar in their diets, as additional tips to achieve a healthier diet.

HEALTHY LIFESTYLES

“Latin foods are full of flavor, and making simple changes to traditional recipes will significantly improve the nutrition content of the dishes. Cooking with low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheeses keeps the flavor while eliminating extra fat,” said Montes.

Additional nutrition tips are now available on Dairy Council of California’s Web site, www.mealsmatter.org, said Montes. The Meals Matter Web site provides nutrition information in both the “En Español” and English sections, including how to deal with lactose intolerance, tips to building strong bones and how to be a healthy role model for your children.

Quick and easy versions of traditional dishes are also available in the “En Español” section. Low-fat chalupas, baked chimichangas and low-fat dips and liquados are just a few of the various free recipes available.

Dairy Council of California develops nutrition education programs that are designed to be personally relevant to each user. This customization allows consumers to make decisions considering their unique needs, resulting in healthy food choices and contributing to optimal health. To learn more about Dairy Council of California, visit www.dairycouncilofca.org. Healthy Eating Made Easier.

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