Our children’s health can directly impact their ability to learn in school and participate in activities. According to the American Dietetic Association (ADA), today's children are overfed but undernourished, are declining in physical activity and have limited health literacy (2008, comments to USDA for Child Nutrition Reauthorization).

More youth are overweight now than ever before, with nearly 32% of children and adolescents age 2 to 19 years being overweight or obese (JAMA 2008; 299(2): 2401-2405). While this rate is at an all time high, it actually represents nearly stable numbers from 2003 to 2006.

With so many overweight or obese, today’s youth are more at risk for adult chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and liver disease. They are also more likely to remain overweight as adults.

Healthy eating patterns formed in childhood and adolescence help promote normal growth development, academic achievement and optimal health (ADA. 2008).

Health, Overweight and Obesity Resources

• CDC Overweight and Obesity Trends
• American Academy of Pediatrics Overweight and Obesity information
• American Academy of Pediatrics Children’s Health Topics
• Georgetown University Maternal and Child Health Library
• Children’s Nutrition Research Center

Diabetes Resources

• Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network
• Special Needs Fact Sheet from National Food Service Management Institute
• National Institutes of Health Celiac Disease Awareness Campaign
• National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Disease Food Allergies
• Accommodating Children with Special Dietary Needs in the School Nutrition Program
• Nutrition for You