Lisa Martich, Media Representative for the Pittsburgh Dietetic Association, was gracious enough to attend the PANA (Pennsylvania Advocates for Nutrition and Activity) Health Care Advisory Board meeting on December 4, 2007 in my absence. PANA is starting out strong in 2008 with plans to develop programs that meet the needs of the Adolescent and Childhood Obesity concerns in Pennsylvania.
Revised 1997 childhood obesity recommendations
In 2005 the AMA/HRSA and CDC convened an Expert Committee to revise the 1997 childhood obesity recommendations. Representatives from 15 healthcare organizations submitted nominations for the experts who would compose the three writing groups (assessment, prevention and treatment). The recommendations are published in a Supplement to Pediatrics in December 2007. The recommendations were initially released on June 6, 2007 in a document titled “Appendix: Expert committee recommendations on the Assessment Prevention and treatment of Child and Adolescent Overweight and Obesity”. To access this excellent reference go to (www.ama-annn.org/ama/pub/category/11759.html)
nrg Powered by Choice (nrg = Energy)
PANA has also launched a new teen powered health movement called nrg Powered by Choice which emphasizes how teens can achieve Energy Balance by leading healthy changes that result in energy-balanced environments. More than 2,000 teens and adult advisors have signed onto the movement since March 2007. PANA is encouraging registered dietitians in PA to check out the Web site at www.poweredbychoice.org and consider becoming an adult advisor in the movement.
KHZ (Keystone Healthy Zone) Helps Schools Make Healthy Easy
From March 3 – April 18, PA schools can enroll in the 5th annual KHZ Schools Campaign, an annual program that recognizes and rewards schools for making a commitment to improve nutrition and physical activity.
New this year, schools that enroll in KHZ have the option to select a Membership Award along the 12345! continuum, a newly developed guide for assessing energy balance. The award program includes free educational programs and kits, free registrations for professional conferences and workshops, free or discounted equipment like Dance Dance Revolution and much more!
Encourage schools that you are working with or that your child attends to apply for this worthwhile nutrition and fitness opportunity. Enrollment is FREE!
 New Consumer Education Message Released During National Nutrition Month
This March, the Penn State Institute for the Collective Advancement of Activity and Nutrition (ICAAN) will introduce nrgBalance™ 12345!, an easy framework for achieving energy balance that the whole family can follow.
1: One hour of physical activity each day
Make physical activity a regular part of the day. Choose enjoyable activities that can easily fit into your daily routine.
2: Two hours or less of screen time each day
Turn off the computer or television and bring new opportunities to play outside, read a book, cook a meal and spend time with family and friends.
3: Three meals a day with family and friends
Share meals together, improve quality family time and increase the nutritional value of your child’s diet.
4: Four or more glasses of water or no/low calorie beverages each day
Beverages, particularly water and no/low calorie beverages, are an important part of a balanced diet by providing hydration and quenching thirst.
5: Five or more fruits and veggies each day
Fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories and are filling. Substitute fruits and veggies in your favorite dishes or enjoy them as a great snack. |
