Initiative for a Healthy Weight

Nutrition

Good nutrition is an essential part of maintaining the energy balance required for a healthy weight. Poor nutrition is associated with an increased risk of obesity and related chronic diseases.

Every five years, the federal government revises the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and presents the latest scientific information about what we should be eating to stay healthy and prevent disease. However, most Rhode Island adults and children do not meet these recommendations for healthy diets.

In addition to individual factors that make it difficult for people to eat healthy, our environments contribute to poor nutrition habits. The Initiative for a Healthy Weight is working to make sure that all Rhode Islanders have access to safe and affordable options for healthy eating.

• What are the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans?
• What can I do to eat healthier?
• How do I read a nutrition label?
• What can we do to encourage Rhode Islanders to eat healthier?
• Where can I get help to eat healthier?