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Melanson KJ. Dietary Considerations for the Prevention and Treatment of Obesity in Youth. Am J Lifestyle Med 2008. [DOI: 10.1177/1559827608329221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The global rise of obesity in children has raised serious concern for their current and future health and well-being. The prevention and treatment of childhood and adolescent obesity must encompass all aspects of a child's life, including home, school, and other settings. A multidisciplinary approach is critical, including physical activity, behavioral factors, and proper dietary habits. Age-appropriate nutrition education and role modeling from adults in children's lives can be important in promoting lifelong healthy eating. Foods to emphasize include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, low-fat dairy products, and lean sources of protein. Foods and beverages with low nutrient density and high energy density should be consumed in moderation, within a child's discretionary calorie allowance. The overall diet must support proper growth, health, development, academic achievement, and well-being without supplying excess energy beyond needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen J. Melanson
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston,
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Abstract
Morbidity and mortality are significantly higher in men than in women and are particularly related to lifestyle-related chronic diseases. Men tend to consume fewer vegetables and fruits than women and fail to meet recommendations for intakes of fats, fibers, and sodium. Men in some population groups tend to consume diets with lower nutrient density than women. Barriers to healthy eating in men include lack of awareness and personal interest, perceptions that foods and diets are “women's business,” lack of social support, and cynicism regarding nutrition messages by health authorities. In addition, many men perceive health-promoting foods as expensive, bland, nonsatiating, and time-consuming to prepare. Research specifically focused on men's health and nutrition is critically needed. Topics to be addressed include biological, psychological, and social correlates of healthy eating in men and nutritional factors particular to chronic disease risk reduction in men. Social, cultural, religious, economic, educational, and other aspects should be taken into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen J. Melanson
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston,
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