Healthy Heart Program Updates
In this Issue
Food and food choice is the theme of this issue of Healthy Heart Beats. Whether it is dietary fats and oils; nuts; coffee or juice-you can read an array of articles that all link to antioxidants and other heart health benefits. Enjoy the antioxidant rich recipes and the abundance of fall vegetables. Cooked squash is a rich source of antioxidants that can also be added to your cooking repertoire this fall. There are many varieties of squash available, from butternut to spaghetti and many in between.
As we go to press the breaking news is that USDA has released MyPyramid for Kids. Go to www.MyPyramid.gov and search the materials now posted for children ages 6-11 years. This adaptation of MyPyramid is intended to reach children with targeted messages about the importance of making smart food and physical activity choices. The goal for kids is 60 minutes of physical activity which may be a challenge to many.
 Educational materials and focused messages include a graphic of a child climbing the stairs, a slogan and materials. As part of the design and development process, potential images and messages were tested with teachers of grades 1-6 and children ages 6-11 to determine how well they communicate the intended content and how appealing they are to the target audience. The educational tools include a 2-sided poster, Tips for Families handout, many classroom materials, and a computer game available on a CD-ROM. The interactive computer game may help children record their food and activity.
If you have educational programs for children or their parents check it out! For more detailed information on MyPyramid for Kids go to Resources in this issue. To help inform children about the new pyramid, the USDA is working with the Grocery Manufacturers of America to produce an insert about MyPyramid for Kids in the Weekly Reader, a newspaper for children used in many elementary school classrooms.
The intent of the new MyPyramid is to encourage activity and nutrient food choices for both children and adults. Managing weight is a basic concept in both of the MyPyramids. We've included resources for you and have addressed questions on weight loss diets. Following the new dietary recommendations is a step in the right direction for good health.
Wishing you all good heart health!
Jennifer Anderson, Ph.D., R.D.
Food and Nutrition Extension Specialist
Shirley Perryman, M.S., R.D.
Extension Specialist
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Updated Tuesday, September 25, 2007.
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