Nourish to Flourish

Nourish to Flourish Food insecurity and being overweight are two of the biggest crises facing America's kids today. But they don't need to be. The solution lies in understanding the facts. Overweight Food insecure 23 16 million kids million kids The Reality of Being Overweight and Hungry They are linked. t Overweighte Hunger Key drivers of food insecurity in the past decade have been higher poverty, unemployment, and decreased home ownership. Families facing food insecurity may: Which leads to nutrient deficiencies.. and OBESITY. Lack Have high levels of stress because Choose inexpensive, calorie-dense foods consistent of things like housing, finances and health care. over healthier options because they lack access to nutrient-dense alternatives. access to healthy food. The types of effects TEST Health and Poor academic Behavioral problems developmental issues performance Irritability, difficulty getting along with others, school suspensions Iron deficiency, asthma, learning Lower math scores, difficulty concentrating, repeating a grade level difficulties But real solutions do exist! USDA Food resources for kids Existing programs are in place. They can significantly reduce hunger by providing consistent access to nutritious foods, which helps reduce obesity and improve health and academics. But these programs need support.. How? Work to Enlist Registered increase availability of healthy foods Dietitian Nutritionists and nutrition for advice on education in practical healthy-eating solutions. food banks. Raise Awareness & Get Involved Educate your community and Learn evidence- based solutions its leaders. to decrease obesity. Advocate for expanded school meal programs (breakfast, supper, weekends, summer). Encourage participation in school meal programs. Promote the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance SNAP is credited with reducing 2 food insecurity by more than 15% Program (SNAP). among participating households. (-15% But only 25% of eligible households SNAP are taking advantage of the program. And most importantly. 8. Lead efforts Almost half of all SNAP participants are children. to reduce the stigma. And urge others to do the same. If SNAP funding is reduced or eliminated, they would suffer SNAP Insist on easier benefit registration and clearer, consise Let federal representatives the most. know you support SNAP and SNAP-ED. program information. SOURCES: www.eatright.org, www.emedicine.medscape.com, www.feedingamerica.org, www.fns.usda.gov/snap, www.fns.usda.gov/slp, www.frac.org/initiatives/hunger-and-obesity, www.kidseatright.org KIDS eat right. Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation www.kidseatright.org