NATIONAL FOOD DAY IS OCTOBER 24, 2013 DELAWARE DIVISION OF PUBLIC HEALTH, DELAWARE COALITION FOR HEALTHY EATING AND ACTIVE LIVING PROMOTE HEALTHY DIETS AND TO

The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) and the Delaware Coalition for Healthy Eating and Active Living (DE HEAL) call on Delawareans to celebrate National Food on October 24, 2013 by making smarter food choices and "re-thinking your drink." Health can be improved even by simple steps like reducing sugary beverages and adding a few more fruits, vegetables, and fiber to your intake.

The typical American diet is unhealthy, leading to obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and several types of cancer. Among Delaware adults, obesity prevalence has doubled in the past two decades, from 14.4% in 1990 to 28.7% in 2010. Eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains and increasing physical are important for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

"National Food Day is a perfect opportunity to mentor a child in how to select, prepare and consume healthy food," suggested Dr. Karyl Rattay, DPH Director. "Children should know how to create healthy snacks and meals with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Trying new recipes is one way we can encourage kids to make smart food choices for life."

The DE HEAL website, www.deheal.org , features a section about sugary beverages.

DPH's Physical Activity, Nutrition and Obesity Program and DE HEAL coordinated with the Center for Science in the Public Interest to promote this observance in Delaware. For more information about National Food Day, including community events and recipes, visit www.foodday.org/ . For more information about healthy lifestyle choices and state resources, visit www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/dpc/panohome.html /

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.