My Overweight Child: Group Gathers to Discuss Ways to Improve Nutrition in Illinois Schools

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Thursday, October 22, 2009

Group Gathers to Discuss Ways to Improve Nutrition in Illinois Schools

In conjunction with National School Lunch Month, a group of concerned community members convened in the Naperville (Illinois) Whole Foods grocery store to discuss ways to improve nutrition in area schools.

Dena Sanderson reported on the event in the Oct. 16 edition of the Naperville Sun:

"Healthier children make better learners," said panelist Rochelle Davis, founding executive director of the Healthy Schools Campaign. "Our program allows us to help school officials make changes in school lunch programs," she added.

Davis said the coalition has helped pass key state laws, including requiring schools to have larger cafeterias so students are eating their lunches at normal times. She said this prevents unhealthy snacking and hunger during the school day.

She added that all schools need to adopt wellness policies and parents need to get involved with their schools in order to bring the health issue to the forefront. ...

Catherine Gonzalez, a registered dietitian with the DuPage County Health Department, said the time is now to make changes in school lunch programs because health issues such as Type 2 diabetes, increased cholesterol levels and psychological issues are among the many consequences of childhood obesity.

Labels: lunches, nutrition, schools