Healthier Snacks for Santa's Snacks

You can make many of your favorite recipes healthier by using lower-fat or no-fat ingredients. These healthy substitutions can help you cut down on saturated. Try subbing this for that. You're skinny jeans will thank you later.

When recipe calls for . . .

Whole milk (1 cup) use
1 cup fat-free or low-fat milk, plus one tablespoon of liquid vegetable oil

Heavy cream (1 cup) use 1 cup evaporated skim milk or 1/2 cup low-fat yogurt and 1/2 cup plain low-fat unsalted cottage cheese

Sour cream use Low-fat unsalted cottage cheese plus low-fat or fat-free yogurt; or just use fat-free sour cream

Cream cheese use 4 tablespoons soft margarine (low in saturated fat and 0 grams trans fat) blended with 1 cup dry, unsalted low-fat cottage cheese; add a small amount of fat-free milk if needed

Butter (1 tablespoon) use 1 tablespoon soft margarine (low in saturated fat and 0 grams trans fat) or 3/4 tablespoon liquid vegetable oil

Egg (1) use 2 egg whites; or choose a commercially made, cholesterol-free egg substitute (1/4 cup)

Unsweetened baking chocolate (1 ounce) use 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder or carob powder plus 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or soft margarine; since carob is sweeter than cocoa, reduce the sugar in the recipe by 25%

http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/NutritionCenter/HealthyCooking/Smart-Substitutions_UCM_302052_Article.jsp

True or False: Next Year You Plan to Eat Out Less?

According to a poll in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution

A recent Harris Poll showed 61 percent of U.S. adults say they'll likely spend less in restaurants, while 58 percent say they'll cut back on entertainment during the next six months.
Those sentiments haven't changed much over the past three years, according to Harris, which has been tracking Americans' spending and savings habits. These are some of the results of The Harris Poll of 2,499 adults surveyed online between Nov. 7 and Nov. 14 by Harris Interactive. The latest responses are similar to those from a similar survey conducted in May.

The average person typically spends about 46% of his/her food budget on dining out. Slightly over 32% is spent dining outside of the home. Given the results from the poll if over 60% plan to spend less on dining out and make more meals at home, do you think that would affect the obesity rate?

Keeping it local, Houston was ranked number 1 in terms of cities the dine out. The average Houstonians ate their meals out three times per week. The current obesity rate is a little less than 30%. Maybe next year people will live healthier lives void of overpriced meals that are high in calories. What's your thoughts?

Click here to read the entire article:
http://www.accessatlanta.com/AccessAtlanta-sharing_/poll-americans-say-theyll-1259156.html

Coalition Building Call

Join the American Heart Association's Houston DINEs and the Midwest Academy for a call on Coalition Building TODAY ONLY!

Have you ever met other organizations in your field doing similar work and wondered if you should work together as a coalition? Or have you joined a coalition that turned out to be a waste of everyone's time and energy? How do you decide whether your organization should join a coalition or build a new one? How can you help an ineffective coalition become healthy and effective?

Join the Midwest Academy and the American Heart Association for a lunchtime webinar (12 - 1:30pm) on Monday, December 12th to discuss solutions to these questions and hear best practices for joining, building and sustaining a healthy and effective coalition.

When: Tuesday, November 29, 2011 12:00 PM-1:30 PM. Central Standard TimeWhere: 888-709-8938 pass code 6554263

Meet Michelle Aguilar, The Biggest Loser's Biggest Winner

Join the Houston DINEs Grassroots Action Team meeting on December 13 at 6 p.m. along with Michelle Aguilar, winner of NBC’s The Biggest Loser.

Michelle will tell her awe-inspiring story of struggling with obesity, her triumphant journey of weight loss and what it felt like to win season 6 of The Biggest Loser. Michelle will also share information about the Houston DINEs obesity prevention campaign, weight loss tips, and principles she used to conquer her struggles. This meeting will provide a platform for strong community advocates such as you to alert the community about various health issues.

Together, we can find ways to combat obesity and make Houston healthier!

When: 6 - 7:30 p.m. on December 13, 2011

Where: American Heart Association 10060 Buffalo Speedway Houston, TX 77063

Why: Because You’re the Cure! Cost:This event is free!

Please donate your time to the cause by submitting your RSVP to t-arsheill.sinclair@heart.org

Holiday Pounds

The holidays are a time for giving thanks, spending time with friends and family, wearing ugly Christmas sweaters and…packing on pounds. The average adult (depending on gender and age) should have within 1500-2000 calories TOTAL per DAY. Calories need to go in (for energy purposes) and most come out (by exercising) or a person will gain weight. Check out the calorie totals for these favorite holiday delicacies.

How many have calories are you eating?

Six-ounces of turkey = 400 calories
1/2 cup of gravy = 150 calories
1/2 cup of cranberry sauce = 150 calories
1/2 cup green bean casserole = 150 calories
1/2 cup mashed potatoes = 150 calories
1 roll = 100 calories
1/2 cup sweet potatoes casserole = 300 calories
1/2 cup stuffing = 150 calories
Pie = 300 to 500 calories depending on kind

One meal containing each of these items can add up to 1750 calories! That doesn’t include more calories if you didn’t pay attention to serving seizes or if you had seconds or thirds. The average holiday meal is closer to 2,500 calories. You will need to walk almost 26 to burn it off.

Information provided by the Oliver Foundation

Cracking the Zip Code Crisis

#DidYouKnow that in a national study of 28,000 zip codes lower income zip codes that 25% fewer per capita supermarkets than its middle class counterparts. It’s no surprise that a lack of a healthy diet leads to higher risk of chronic diseases. Nearly 2/3rd of all Texans are either overweight or obese. People who live in neighborhoods with a lack of supermarkets have way higher rates of obesity which often correlates with heart disease and/or diabetes.

In a poll conducted by Ebony magazine respondents were asked a basic question: “Which of the following will be effective at reducing the number of obese persons?’ Here are their responses.

What’s more important to you?

· Make physical education part of everyday school life 76%
· Public Health education 59%
· More parks and gyms 50%
· Easier access to grocery stores with fresh produce 49%
· Fewer local fast food restaurants 40%
· Better food labeling 35%
· Restaurant food information 27%

The last three resonated with us. Research is showing that more and more people are eating more meals outside of the home. More food portions are way larger than they used to be, more calorie laden and cheaper. If you lived in a city that menu labels how would that affect you eating habits? If you live in a city that doesn’t menu label does that help or hinder your health.

Houston Ranks #1 In Average Meals Eaten Out

And the survey says… Houston ranks No. 1 in the average number of meals eaten out of the home per week. That’s according to Zagat’s 2012 America’s Top Restaurants survey. The survey found that Houstonians eat meals out an average of four times per week, and Houston wasn’t alone. Texas cities rounded out the top four with Austin (3.8 meals per week), Dallas / Fort Worth (3.6) and San Antonio (3.5).

These numbers prove that now more than ever Houstonians needs to make healthy choices while dining out. It has been proven that foods eaten away from the home typically are served in larger portion sizes and are higher in energy density compared to food eaten at home.

By making healthier choices while dining out Houstonians can help lower instances of Type 2 diabetes, hypercholesterolemia and obesity.

Are you dining out four or more times per week? Stick to healthy choices and make a difference in your future.

See the link below to the full article.
http://houston.culturemap.com/newsdetail/10-26-11-houston-still-the-undisputed-champion-in-eating-out-no-1-city-in-country-for-meals-out-per-week/


M. Allen

Lacy Brussels Sprouts with Poppy Seeds Recipe

Try this for the holidays.

8 tablespoons olive oil
2 shallots, sliced
2 pounds Brussels sprouts, shredded
Salt and black pepper, as needed
1 lemon, juiced and zested
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat and add sliced shallots. Shred Brussels sprouts in a food processor or by hand. After shallots have softened stir in shredded sprouts and season with a little salt and pepper. Cook for a couple minutes until bright green and tender. While the sprouts are cooking whisk together remaining 6 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice and zest, Dijon mustard, honey, salt and pepper. Pull sprouts off heat and toss in vinaigrette.

Get the recipe: Lacy Brussels Sprouts with Poppy Seeds and Golden Cauliflower Soup

Provided by the Food Trust.

A Star is Born? Simplifying Food Nutrition Labels.

Imagine going into a home appliance story in search of your dream washer and dryer. You know you want one that’s bright orange, stackable and energy efficient. You’re prepared to spend your entire Saturday on a scavenger hunt; however you walk down aisle 6 and there is it! An orange, stackable washer and dryer with the Energy Star label front and center. The hunt is over. You pay for your purchase and go home day dreaming about fabric softener. Scenario number two, you head to the grocery store to grab some vittles for the family. You love them dearly and only want the best for them. Each item you grab you read the label, trying to calculate the fat versus total grams of fat, sodium, calories and Tran’s fats. By the time you make it to the checkout line you have an equation that would stomp Albert Einstein. Sadly, that’s the reality for many Americans at grocery stores and restaurants. Trying to determine the healthiest choices can be as daunting as the SATs.

In October, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) released a report calling for less complicated nutrition facts on food items. The report recommended placing the nutrition information on the front of the package instead of the back, that it show the number of calories per serving and that it includes stars as health check marks. Three stars would be considered a healthy food while zero starts would be considered a food high in fats, sodium and added sugars. Foods high in fat, sodium and sugar typically correlate with obesity and other morbidly factors. The report was compiled at the request of Congress to submit to the FDA, CDC and Department of Agriculture.

The information was a step toward replacing the existing nutrition labels which are dominated by numbers that are often difficult to decipher. The star system would make it easy to read and understand. Three stars = healthy! Zero star= bad. The details are still being worked out but at least we know Congress is looking for ways to reduce obesity and help us make healthier choices.

Helping Houston Make Healthier Choices

Did you know that Texas ranks 7th in the nation among childhood obesity? Last November, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission started The Medicaid Child Obesity Prevention Pilot, a two year program created to reduce obesity. A one year report on this program has just been released.

We want to share this report with the Houston City Council, and also empower them to make proactive changes that will make Houston healthier.

Click here to take action now!

One of the goals of the program is to improve nutritional choices and increase physical activity levels. But there are things our city leaders can do to encourage healthier lifestyles.

Take action and tell your councilmember to support programs that reduce obesity:

-By making access to healthier foods easier. Access to fresh fruits and vegetables are often times limited but access to fast foods is plentiful.

-Encouraging efforts that would have restaurants post calories on menu items especially kid’s meals.

-Supporting the P.E. standards in schools as well as before and after school programs designed to get kids active.

Cinnamon Spice and Everything Nice...

If you're anything like me and the millions of other patrons you love a seasonal latte. Pumpkin Spice, Mint Mocha and lets not forget Cinnamon and Nutmeg flavored drinks. By the end of September one whiff of an autumn drink makes me nostalgic and reminiscent of the good old day. However, by November the holiday pounds begin to sneak up.

#DidYouKnow that one 16oz flavored latte can range from 260 calories to 380 depending on your love for dairy like whole milk or it's city cousin whip cream. Nearly half of a food spending is used on food outside of the home. That includes fancy coffee houses (and the not so fancy ones). There are ways to enjoy your coffee indulgence without the guilt. Having calorie information available at restaurants would be ideal for combating the weight gain grinch. The average person should only consume between 1600-2000 calories per day. Using 15% of your daily calorie supply on one drink probably isn't such a good idea.

Here are some tips:

1. Order a regular cafe latte sans whip cream. A 16 oz cup is. Only 130 calories! It gives you your coffee fix minus the scale shocking pounds.

2. Drink green tea instead. It gives you that same bolt of energy as coffee plus it has antioxidants.

3. If you just absolutely must have a Pumpkin Latte pair it with at least thirty minutes of exercise. These days exercise can be really fun and can include almost anything conducted at a moderate pace.

4. Know how many calories you're drinking. If the nutrition information isn't posted on the menu ASK for it. Take charge of your health and your dollar. As a patron you have a right to know!

For more information on ways to take charge and take action visit:
Www.yourethecure.org

#DidYouKnow People Care About Calorie Count

Did you know that one in six fast food customers used calorie information and purchased lower calorie menu items since the introduction of a labeling system in the U.S.? This is according to a new study published on the British Medical Journal website. A ScienceDaily article also says that obesity rates for children and adults currently are at an all time high in the U.S. with 13 percent of children and 33 percent of adults being obese. It’s more important than ever to begin making healthy choices.

The researchers found that there have been small, positive impacts from a law that was introduced in New York in 2008 that requires restaurants with more than 15 locations nationally to provide calorie information on menus and menu boards in the city. Although this is a positive change, the researchers said that menu labeling is only one piece of the framework to address the obesity epidemic. They concluded that special attention should be focused on educating customers on how to interpret and use nutrition information.

Although only select eating establishments in Houston are offering nutrition information on their menu boards currently, the American Heart Association encourages consumers to ask questions about the calories they consume. This will increase the ability of consumers to make informed choices in the food and beverages that they purchase in restaurant.

So, the next time you are dining out, become an informed consumer and ask questions about nutrition information prior to making your purchase. Asking questions leads to a healthier choice.

Please see the link below to the full article. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/07/110726213458.htm


M. Allen
October 21, 2011

UNDOing Obesity in Houston with UH

On October 18th, The University of Houston's Science & Community hosted an After-School Health Expo: Health Fair and Symposium. The event was a great success! Approximately50 community members attended including the kiddies and over 25vendors/exhibitors attended the event. Attendees were able to participate in a walk to the UH community garden, (which burns calories), participate in a Nightclub Cardio fitness demonstration, (which burns calories) and engage in a group discussion about reducing early childhood obesity via a collaborative research (which can determine ways to burn calories). Are you seeing a trend?

The Science and Community aims to undo obesity (Understanding Neighborhood Determinants of Obesity) in Houston. Health Symposiums are just one to become involved. For more information about this organization and ways you can help reduce obesity visit their website. It's listed below!!

http://www.hhp.uh.edu/undo/?page_id=267

Chain Reaction: First Calories Now Other Important information

Restaurants are super-sizing their nutritional disclosures

In a LA Times article we learned that we Americans are as picky eaters as five year olds. We need to know how many calories we’re consuming for health reasons and we also need to know how our meals are prepared. Who knew Chipotle Mexican Grill’s used bacon in cooking its pinto beans? Overall, Americans want more information about the foods they eat and restaurants (fast food joints and fine dining) are giving the people what they want beyond just calorie counts.

Here is what the article says:

The article boasts that “they are updating their signs and menus for diet-conscious customers, and they also are highlighting potential problems for those with food allergies or other dietary restrictions.”Although responding to demand, quick-service restaurants also see that providing the additional information can help them stand out in the highly competitive marketplace."If you can demonstrate to families that you can offer them a safe meal, you establish a tremendous sense of loyalty and create repeat customers," said Chris Weiss, vice president at the nonprofit Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network.

"As we look to the future, we'll definitely see more restaurants doing this."Healthful eating is already at the forefront of the food industry. California requires large chains to disclose calorie counts for each meal, and similar federal rules are coming next year.Adding another layer of information is a natural progression, industry experts said, especially for restaurants eager to woo the growing number of customers who aren't eating beef burgers or can't eat food cooked in peanut oil. Non-meat eaters rose to 8% of American adults in 2009 from 6.7% in 2006, according to the latest figures from nonprofit education organization the Vegetarian Resource Group. Moreover, food allergy cases increased 18% from 1997 to 2007, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-diet-signs-20111022,0,3305400.story

Community Leader Roundtable Discussion

Are you a community leader who works in the area of obesity prevention? Get up off your soap box and join us on Monday at the American Heart Association office from 6-8pm! Your opinion is extremely valuable to us and we "heart" what you have to say!!

Where: 10060 Buffalo Speedway Houston, TX 77054
When: Monday, October 17th, 2011
Time: 6pm-8pm
Why: Because You're the Cure, duh!

Contact: t-ar'sheill.sinclair@heart.org to RSVP.

Bringing Home the Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato

In a recent USA Today article we found that teenagers have no idea how many calories are in the fast foods they love. Often times they underestimate their caloric consumption by hundreds of calories per meal. As we have learned, not knowing calorie consumption tends to lead to weight gain which can turn into obesity. With so many people eating outside of the home its important to have calorie information available.

A survey was conducted of 547 adolescences ranging in ages 11-20 when they left five leading chain restaurants. During the survey, they were asked to estimate how many calories they had just ate. The researchers, based on the meal consumed, figured out the correct amount of calories for each entree.

Here is what they found:
•80% of young people underestimated the calories in their meals.
•30% underestimated the amount by 500 or more calories.
•Those who ordered 1,000-calorie meals underestimated the amount by an average of 350 calories.
•Those who ordered 1,500-calorie meals were off by 700 calories


Here is the complete article:
http://yourlife.usatoday.com/parenting-family/teen-ya/story/2011-10-04/Teenagers-underestimate-calories-in-fast-food/50660282/1

Battle of the Lunches

In a recent article in the Associated Press titled Salads Are Nice But Burgers Are What Really Sale (October 3, 2011), American eating habits were exposed. People say they eat healthy but when they are actually ordering food to eat they choose otherwise. Over 2/3rd of all Americans are overweight and spend over 40% of their food budget on dining out. According to the article 47% say they'd like restaurants to offer healthier items like salads and baked potatoes, but only 23 percent order healthier options, according to a survey last year by food research firm Technomic.

Hmmm...with so many food options for lunch its important to have calorie information available. A Chicken Cesare Salad at Chili's will cost you 1100 calories whereas a cheeseburger from Mickey D's is only 300 calories. The restaurant industry has made claims that people don't want healthier options and are hesitant to offer entrees that are more heart, healthy. We think just proving the nutrition facts is a great start for making the right choices. What do You think? Do you know how many calories you are eating?

http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_UNHEALTHY_EATING?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2011-10-03-04-15-49

Happier Meals

This year several fast food restaurants have revamped their menus especially options for the kiddies to make their meals healthier. Beginning in October, Arby’s will follow suite and unveil two new kids’ meal entrees and replace fries with apple slices and strawberry yogurt dipping sauce as a side to every option on its Kids Meal menu. The new children’s menu offering will reduce calories by a whopping 40 percent, fat by 70 percent, and sodium by 50 percent.

Studies show that the number of meals eating outside of the home has constantly increased. Having healthier options makes it easier for consumers to make healthier choices. In Texas children have an obesity rate of over 20%. Restaurants providing options that are lower in calories and fat can have a positive effect on children’s health.

Here is the entire article:

http://www.qsrmagazine.com/exclusives/arby-s-revamps-kids-meals

AHA Scholarship for Multicultural Women

The AHA has teamed up with Macy's to provide scholarships to multicultural women interested in healthcare careers. With the Go Red For Women awareness campaign, the AHA will expand access and availability to 16 women who are students in the medical field. This will increase awareness in health care. The scholarships are $2,500 to go toward school. The deadline is November 30th so request an application now!!

Visit GoRedForWomen.org/GoRedScholarship.

Read more from our newsletter:
"Macy's is proud to have helped launch the Go Red Multicultural Scholarship Fund to encourage students nationwide to explore career opportunities that make a direct impact in their communities by joining the fight against heart disease in women," said Bill Hawthorne, Macy's senior vice president of Diversity Strategies.

"Ethnically diverse women are needed in the healthcare field. They can have a very positive impact on the delivery of healthcare services to diverse populations because they understand their communities and they know how to provide care that is meaningful, appropriate and sensitive to their needs," said Eva Gómez, R.N., Go Red Por Tu Corazón spokesperson and staff development specialist in the Department of Nursing at Children's Hospital Boston.

The City That Never Sleeps is Becoming the City That Never Smokes Too!

Kudos to the Big Apple!

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and company recently announced that New York City’s adult smoking rate has reached an all-time low with only 14 out of 100 New Yorkers still smoking.

Since inception of aggresive smoking ban ads in 2002, there has been a 35% decrease in New York smokers. This equates to 450,000 fewer adult smokers.

“Smoking is the leading cause of preventable, premature death in New York City and the nation today and we’re proud that a record number of News Yorkers are saving their own lives by quitting,” said Mayor Bloomberg.

“The fact that the adult smoking rate is the lowest it’s been since 2002 means that lives are being saved, our air is cleaner and New Yorkers are healthier,” said Council Speaker Christine Quinn. “In the last ten years we’ve become an increasingly smoke-free city. We’ve reduced the exposure to secondhand smoke for millions of New Yorkers by passing several measures to strengthen our Smoke Free Air Act, including an amendment last May that made our public parks and beaches smoke-free. This matters because according to experts secondhand smoke causes more cancer deaths than asbestos, benzene, arsenic, and pesticides combined.”

September is ALL About Obesity Awareness

Check out this cool article we found on Seattle PI blog:

It highlights some of the stats effectong children. This week in Texas is Obesity Awareness Week. What are you doing to address the issue? Let us know on our Twitter. www.twitter.com/houstondines.

Link to the complete article: http://blog.seattlepi.com/timigustafsonrd/2011/09/11/president-proclaims-september-as-childhood-obesity-awareness-month/

President Obama has marked September 2011 as the first “National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month,” calling on all Americans to “promote healthy eating and greater physical activity by all our nation’s children.”“By taking action to address the issue of childhood obesity,” the president went on, “we can help America’s next generation reach their full potential.”As an example for the kind of action the president had in mind, he named his wife’s initiative, called “Let’s Move!” – a program that encourages government agencies, corporations and advocacy groups to unite in the fight against the growing obesity crisis that afflicts America’s youngest generation today.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), childhood obesity has more than tripled over the past 30 years. One if five children age six to 11 is now being considered obese. The numbers are similar for adolescents age 12 to 19. And the trend continues. “Childhood obesity statistics and facts are more and more pessimistic and should be an alarm sign for all those who don’t take it seriously,” warns the latest CDC report on obesity trends in America of 2010.

Obesity Awareness Week

As a proud Texan you already know that in 2007 the 80th Legislature designated the second full week in September as Obesity Awareness Week. This week was created to draw attention to the growing epidemic that is plaguing the state. For instance, the obesity rate in Texas has increased by more than 80% within the past 15 years. Texas is now ranked as the 12th FATTEST state in the nation, almost proving that everything is BIGGER in Texas. Obesity was estimated to cost this great state's employers about $9.5 billion in 2009.

Now it's time to combat obesity Chuck Norris style. Here are three things that you and your family can do during Texas Obesity Awareness Week:

1. Exercise for 30 minutes at least 4 days during Texas Obesity Week. Exercise could include walking, running, swimming...almost any verb you can think of.

2. Make healthier food choices. Just say "NO" to mayo all week long.

3. Involve your entire community! Make health your priority! You're a Texan, You can do it!

3a. If you're in Houston come join us on Saturday, September 10th at Discovery Green Family Health Day from 2pm-8pm!

Wonder How Many Calories You're Eating? There's an App for That!

There’s an app for that....IF you live in Canada. McDonald’s has created an iPhone app to help Canadian consumers make more informed choices in what they eat. The app is available for free download at Apple’s App Store. McDonald’s Canada claims that this is the first of its kind in the Canadian quick-service restaurant industry. “The app is part of our long-standing approach to nutrition and empowering customers to make menu choices,” said Louis Payette, national media relations manager for McDonald’s Canada, Toronto, Canada. “We’re thrilled to expand this information and ultimately it makes their lives easier to know what they’re getting,” he said.

About the App:

The McDonald’s Canada iPhone Nutrition Calculator App is available in both English and French.

Users can drag and drop their menu choices to a virtual tray where they can see detailed nutrition information for their entire meal, as well as specific items.

Additionally, consumers can remove ingredients, such as cheese, margarine and sauces depending on their preferences.

Users can access information by meal, by menu item, or by ingredient.

The type of information includes calories, protein, fat, saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, sodium, carbohydrate, fiber, calcium, iron, vitamin A, vitamin C and percent daily value.
Consumers can also access nutrition fact labels and access the nutrition facts label and complete list of ingredients for menu items.

Now that we know this is possible...when is it available in USA markets? Would you want to know how many calories you are eating?

Read the entire article by clicking here:

http://www.mobilemarketer.com/cms/news/content/10819.html

Hard Times Equals More Trips to the Drive Thru

According to an article in the Huffington Post "4.5 million Americans are eating less-healthy food this year than they were a year ago, according to a Gallup Poll released in June, a trend that appears to go hand in hand with diminished spending power. Americans spent slightly less money on all types of food in 2009 than they did in 2008, the latest year for which data is available, according to Census data. At the same time, average annual spending on fresh fruits and vegetables also declined."

Based on the numbers of people eating out more, its important to know the calorie content of menu items. Research shows correlations between fast food spending an obesity rates. Texas is now ranked the 12th most obese state. Additionally, Houston, TX home to over 2 million residents has one of the largest restaurants per capita. Now is the time to urge council members to make Houston healthier!!

Here is the full Huffington Post article:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/07/17/eating-habits-the-next-ec_n_900443.html

Making Health a Priority: Principal Gets an "A" for Fighting Obesity

The Danville, IL school board said, "Make health a priority."

Principal Cheryl McIntire at Northeast Elementary Magnet School took that order and ran with it. Since 2006 the Principal has been working with schools to fight childhood obesity one step at a time. In the classroom teachers and students conduct physical activity where they strength their limbs or do modified versions of yoga. PE is scheduled for everyday of the school week. Students receive healthy snacks of nature's candy such as fresh fruit like strawberries.

Principal McIntire works closely with The Alliance, founded by the Clinton Foundation and the American Heart Association. The Alliance partners with about 12,000 of the nation’s 99,000 elementary and secondary schools to offer best practices on making the school environment better for students. Northeast Elementary Magnet School is one of three schools to receive the Gold Award.

Students, parents, teachers and administrators are proud of their achievements. Their practices can be easily mimicked in any elementary or secondary school setting but it begins with making health a number one priority. What are some things you think you can do to start making your students healthier?

“If we can measure that we have stopped the rise of young children who are obese and chronically overweight and that it’s going back down, and if we can see a reversal in the number of young people who developed type II diabetes,” former President Bill Clinton tells Dr. Sanjay Gupta, “then I think you will see that will have enormous ramifications through the health care system.”

In the halls of Northeast Elementary, a banner announces the school’s Gold Award status, but the real impact, say administrators, is felt well beyond the campus walls.

“One of the things on our parents' survey is how excited they were about the exposure that our children have had to fruits and vegetables that they have never tasted before,” says McIntire, “and how much they’ve encouraged their parents when they’re grocery shopping to buy those things at home.”


Click here for the entire article. It's a heart healthy read!
http://thechart.blogs.cnn.com/2011/08/16/schools-daily-pe-fresh-fruit-set-kids-on-a-healthy-path/?hpt=hp_bn6

Let Them Eat Low Calorie Cheesecake

The summer has always been a good time for fun outdoor activities and an over indulgence in dairy products like ice cream (we know you scream for it) and cheesecake. If you're watching your calories, you're in luck!

The Cheesecake Factory has expanded their menu with new “SkinnyLicious” options, a menu for health conscious. The restaurant has become famous for their expansive menu, but now restaurant goers will have some healthier options to choose from.

The new “SkinnyLicious” menu will offer nearly 50 lower calorie items with a variety of new and signature favorites. The lower calorie options will be featured on a stand-alone menu alongside of the regular menu. So don't worry about having to do a scavenger hunt for the information.

Also, the Small Plates & Appetizers and fresh-baked Flatbreads categories feature dishes all under 490 calories, while the entrée Salads and main courses are all served with 590 calories or less. Also featured are five Skinny Cocktails each with 150 calories or less. Knowing your calorie consumption is the first step toward battling the bulge (getting into those favorite jeans of yours) and being overall heart healthy.

Check out their entire menu by using the link below. Kudos to the Cheesecake Factory for making steps toward a healthier USA. More than 46% of the average household's food budget is spent on dining out so having low calorie information available makes it easier to make better choices. Who knows...maybe they will post all their calorie information on their menus.

http://www.thecheesecakefactory.com/chefscorner/

Contributed by M. Allen

Mother Knows Best

We all know that mom’s are the gatekeepers of the family. They handle almost every aspect of the household especially when it comes to making food choices. Within the last three decades America has gotten pretty diverse with an influx of immigrants from various backgrounds. Despite how diverse the country continues to get, one thing remains the same—moms know that healthy food choices are extremely important for their families.

Recent research provided by the Techomic and C3 group showed that “regardless of ethnicity, moms are the most likely members of their families to make decisions on restaurant patronage and that, despite their diverse tastes, many share similar motivations and attitudes about food”. This could mean that parents serve as advocates and stewards of healthy lifestyles that begin at home. Even when faced with a variety of food choices the family’s health comes first. This could be the force that sparked changed in the way certain restaurants provide thie r kid’s meal options.

This point stood out the most to us:

The leading priorities for moms across all demographic groups are health and value. Just under one-quarter (24 percent) of all moms view health as their primary motivation, while 22 percent say value is the primary consideration when making foodservice choices. 


How do you feel about this?

Here is the full report: Today’s Mom: Understanding the Foodservice Attitudes and Behaviors of Major Ethnic Groups includes: psychological profiles outlining the different foodservice motivations of moms; a comprehensive overview of mom usage at fast-food, fast-casual, and full-service restaurants; the impact the recession has had on the foodservice usage of mothers; and comprehensive appendices outlining the diverse foodservice behaviors of Asian and Hispanic mothers

Click here to check out the full article:
http://www.qsrmagazine.com/news/moms-decide-dining-especially-among-immigrants QSR Magazine August 8, 2011 Online Publication

Add an Apple to Your Appetite

It's summer time! Hot and humid but the perfect time to stay healthy. According to an article found in the Houston Chronicle, there is more new evidence that talks about the goodness of the apple. Apples can reduce inflammation in your body (say goodbye to the Aleve), lower bad cholesterol, keep your heart as healthy as a horse's, can help you lose weight and is low in calories. Talk about an amazing fruit!

We all heard the old adage: "an apple a day can keep the doctor away." But seriously, consuming apples daily for 6 months can reduce LDL cholesterol by over 20%. With that in mind, you should be be running to the produce aisle.

Try this small goal, it can be the start of a heart, healthy lifestyle.

Ready...

1. Eat 2-3 apples a day!

Read more: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/life/main/7675678.html#ixzz1TtSAKueR

McDonalds’ Happy Meal Now A Healthier Meal?

In the state of Texas (and almost everywhere else in America) one out of three children are overweight or obese. There are various reasons as to why generations of children are becoming more and more overweight: lack of PE in schools, environment and poor food choices. Studies show that more and more people are eating outside of the home. Most importantly, 94% of the top 25 fast food places with kid’s menu options are extremely high in calories because they are dominated by burgers, chicken nuggets, French fries and sugary soft drinks.

Lately, McDonald’s Corporation has been receiving lots of pressure from health and children's advocacy groups to make changes to its Happy Meals. The chain has agreed to make changes! Beginning in September, McDonald’s will do a trial run by adding a serving of fruit or vegetable and reducing the portion size of French fries from 2.4 oz to 1.1 oz. By April 2012, all 14,000 locations will make the much needed change.

Here are some of the changes to make the Happy Meal a Healthy Meal

· The new French fry holders in Happy Meals will contain 1.1 ounces of potatoes, down from 2.4.

· Apple slices will be included as side dish, but it could also be carrots, raisins, pineapple slices or mandarin oranges (depends on the season and region)

· The new meals will represent, on average, a 20% decrease in calories!
· The price will stay the same.

Other changes in the past
· In 2004 McDonald’s changed by offering soda alternatives, such as 1% milk.

· It also offered an option of replacing fries with sliced apples served with low-fat caramel sauce
· In 2006, McDonald's began advertising a version of its Happy Meal that included chicken nuggets and the apple slices, marketed as Apple Dippers because of the caramel sauce.
· The result is that 88% of McDonald's customers knew about the fruit option with Happy Meals, according to the company. But only 11% of kid’s meals are ordered with apples instead of fries.

McPromises

· McDonald's is also pledging to reduce by 15% the amount of sodium
· The company recently reduced sodium in its chicken nuggets by 10%, on top of a 13% reduction in sodium after the nuggets were changed from dark meat to white meat.
· The chain said it will work toward additional reductions in sugars, saturated fat and calories by 2020 and has hired an unidentified third-party organization to report on its progress.

Check out the full article here:
http://www.latimes.com/health/la-fi-mcdonalds-20110726,0,2861497.story

Texas and the F Word…Fat!

In a report recently released by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Texas is cited as #12 in the nation in terms of obesity with an adult obesity rate of 30%. Twelve states including Texas now have obesity rates over 30%. Obesity rates exceed 25 percent 38 states. While this is the eighth annual report, this year’s report shows how the obesity epidemic has grown.

Check out some key stats from the report listed below:

§ Over the past 15 years, seven states have doubled their rate of obesity.
§ Another 10 states nearly doubled their obesity rate, with increased of at least 90 percent, and 22 more states saw obesity rates increase by at least 80 percent
§ The obesity rate in Texas increased more than 80 percent over the last 15 years.
§ Ten years ago, no state had an obesity rate above 24 percent, and now 43 states have higher obesity rates than the state that was the highest in 2000.
§ Fifteen years ago, Texas had a combined obesity and overweight rate of 50.3 percent. Now, the combined rate is 66.5 percent.
§ Fifteen years ago, Texas had a hypertension rate of 21.7 percent. Now, the rate is 27.2 percent.

"Today, the state with the lowest adult obesity rate would have had the highest rate in 1995," said Jeff Levi, Ph.D., executive director of TFAH. "There was a clear tipping point in our national weight gain over the last twenty years, and we can't afford to ignore the impact obesity has on our health and corresponding health care spending."

http://healthyamericans.org/reports/obesity2011/release.php?stateid=TX

Where A Kid Can Be a Kid!

Houston-area Chuck E. Cheese restaurants made some additions to their menu boards recently. Customers are now able to view nutritional information for nearly every menu item prior to placing their order. The new menu boards offer calories per slice of pizza for each of their pizza offerings. Calories are also listed for wings, platters, sandwiches, sides and desserts.

The Chuck E. Cheese website also offers easy access to a full nutritional information page. Check it out at http://www.chuckecheese.com/menu/nutritional-information.pdf. Restaurant goers will also notice a switch to Pepsi products. We contacted the Chuck E. Cheese corporate office about the new beverage selections and they had the following response.

“Chuck E. Cheese's elected to move to Pepsi to address our guests changingtastes. Pepsi offers us many more choices of non-carbonated drinks such asGatorade, Lipton Tea and Tropicana punch drinks. These non-carbonateddrinks are more in line with today's family focus on health, nutrition andactivity.”

Hats off to Chuck E.!

Kids everywhere can learn the importance of knowing what they are eating so as adults they can will make healthier choices!

Contributed by Meghan Allen

Baby Steps Toward Chidhood Obesity Prevention

Check out this article we found at the Orlando Sentinel:
Childhood obesity prevention is extremely important! Research is predicting that if things are not one to reduce the harmful effects of this epidemic the generation will be the first to not out live their parents. With that in mid, we applaud restaurants that are making positive strides toward undoing the damage.

Here is a blurb from the article.

Olive Garden has ditched french fries and milkshakes on its kids' menus, replacing them with grapes and fruit smoothies.
Olive Garden, owned by Orlando-based Darden Restaurants, made the changes in its menu this week. The french fries had previously been an option with chicken fingers. Now the chicken fingers are just offered with spaghetti. Also, milk now has 1 percent milk fat. It used to have 2 percent. The changes come as many restaurants are trying to offer healthier options for diners, especially younger ones.

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/os-olive-garden-healthier-kids-meals-20110629,0,5195856.story

Healthy Options for Your Little Peeps

In today’s society, we’re constantly on the go. We do everything on the fly; we like our meals made in 60 seconds or less but we never pay attention to the facts…especially the nutrition facts. The trajectory of obesity in America is similar to the growth in consumption at fast food restaurants. Consumer spending on fast food increased to 46%. As American’s waist lines increase so does the profit margin of restaurants. Between 1978-1996 the percentage of meals consumed outside the home increased from 18% to 32%.

When it comes to the kiddies 94% of all children’s menus of the top 25 fast food restaurants are high in calories, even after making substitutions for healthier options. Over the last two decades obesity rates have tripled in children. However, there are some places that are working toward making healthy, low calorie meals a priority such as Chick Fil A.

The Chick-fil-A Kid's Meal consists of a main entre of Nuggets or Chick-n-Strips, Waffle Potato Fries, or fruit cup, and choice of 1% milk, chocolate milk, 100% apple juice, or soda. These meals are delicious and are not overly laden with calories. For example, ordering a kid’s meal of 2 chicken strips, fruit cup which counts as half a serving of fruit and milk are only 380 calories. Not to mention there is no price difference for substituting for healthier options.

Monitoring calories, eating colors such as fruits and vegetable and 60 minutes of rigorous exercise family fun are steps toward a healthier family and a healthier generation.

Check out their website for healthy tips when dining on the go.
http://www.chick-fil-a.com/Kids/Healthful

No Toys For Tots At Jack in the Box

Check out this article we found on the LA Times Blog.

Jack in the Box fast food restaurant will no longer put toys in the their kid’s meals. It also added a healthy alternative to its kid’s meals, apple dippers! It’s a small step toward counteracting obesity rates across the nation. What are your thoughts on the matter? Here is the entire article below:

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/money_co/2011/06/jack-in-the-box-toys.html

In a move that has drawn praise from nutrition advocates, Jack in the Box has stopped offering toys with meals aimed at children, a leading restaurant industry publication said this week.
Nation's Restaurant News reports that the nation's fifth-largest hamburger chain has posted signs in its restaurants letting parents know that trinkets will no longer be included in kids' meals.

In a news release, Jack in the Box also said it has added a new food choice for kids: apple bits with caramel that clock in at 70 calories per serving -- fewer than the apple dippers served at McDonald's.

Tracy Dunn, director of marketing and promotions for the chain, said the apple side dish was just one healthful option for kids on its menu.
“Jack in the Box offers a lot of variety with our Kid's Combos, from grilled or crispy chicken strips, a grilled cheese sandwich and hamburger to low-fat milk, juice and fountain beverages,” Dunn said.

Nutrition advocates nationwide are pressuring fast food companies to stop giving out toys to children, saying the practice makes it too tempting for kids to want to eat fast food and contributes to the epidemic of childhood obesity.
California's San Francisco and Santa Clara counties have enacted so-called Happy Meal bans, which prohibit restaurants from offering toys to children with meals that are high in calories, sugar, salt and fat.

Nick Guroff, spokesman for Corporate Accountability International, which supports the toy bans and has repeatedly urged McDonald's to stop marketing to children, said his organization was pleased that Jack in the Box has stopped providing toys.
"It's certainly a sign McDonald's competitors see a market opportunity in differentiating from the industry leader and that campaigning by health advocates is changing the marketing landscape for the industry at large," Guroff said.

Jack in the Box did not return a call seeking comment for this story.

Be an Advocate for Smoke-Free Texas and Breathe Easy

The Senate Health and Human Services committee can recommend the Smoke Free Workplaces bill to be debated on the Senate floor. Thanks to advocates and champions like you we have strong support in the House. Our chances with the Senate are good but let's make the great. This committee is the gatekeeper to this monumental of legislation, so PLEASE call today! All we want is the chance for the bill to be debated. Remember...You're the Cure!!

· Senator Jane Nelson (Chair) 512.463.0112
· Senator Bob Deuell (Vice Chair) 512.463.0102
· Senator Joan Huffman 512.463.0117
· Senator Robert Nichols 512.463.0103
· Senator Dan Patrick 512.463.0107

You can also call 1-888-Now-I-Can to get patched through to your elected officials.

Hasta La Vista To Not Knowing How Many Calories Are in Your Meal

Almost three years ago, the California Governator signed a small piece of legislation that packs a huge punch. California Senate Bill 1420, more commonly referred to as the “menu labeling bill” made it mandatory for chain restaurants having 20 or more outlets in California, with standardized menu items to list nutrition information on the menu and on menu boards via drive thru. The bill went into full effect in 2011, although proprietors’ have been using the three year threshold to make brochures with nutrition information available in their restaurants. The bill preempts cities and counties from enacting competing menu labeling provisions, as San Francisco and Santa Clara County have, though the bill’s advocates consider that a price worth paying given how many more people will now have access to calorie information.

Research is showing that more and more people are eating more meals outside of the home. More food portions are way larger than they used to be, more calorie laden and cheaper. For the price of a bag of organic apples you can have a McNuggets combo meal with a medium fry and Coke. But whereas an apple which is nutritious, filling and still has the title of “Keeping the Doctor Away” has only 95 calories and the combo meal has well over 700 calories. Not to mention, that if the calories aren’t posted on the menu patrons typically underestimate how many calories they consume per day.

A fairly recent study conducted by the University of California Berkeley suggests that if 80% of adult consumers in California saw the calorie information on the menu board they would reduce their purchases by 52 calories per visit; thusly would lose 2 lbs per year. Living in a city that doesn’t menu label I never thought that actually seeing the calories next to the price would make a difference. On a recent trip to Los Angeles I stood in line at the In and Out Burge ready to binge on a burger and fries and a large shake. After blatantly seeing that the shake was more calories than the burger and fries I could not consumer it with a clear conscious. I could not knowingly eat 1000 calories knowing I only had about 2,000 to spare per day. In my mind it was analogous to spending my rent money on designer luxury shoes. I simply couldn’t “afford” those calories so I left the shake, but I still enjoyed the meal with no regrets.

If you lived in a city that menu labels how would that affect you eating habits? If you live in a city that doesn’t menu label does that help or hinder your health.

Share your responses via Twitter: www.twitter.com/houstondines

Desert these Desserts: The Worse “Treats” You Can Have this Summer

In January you resolved to be healthier, more fit and to make better wellness decisions for your life. You hit the gym running, you cut the fat, and now you’re a better YOU and your body is beach ready. Summertime is the perfect time to keep up the good work. Heart healthy is a life style, not a season or a fad. This summer when you’re out and a about and looking for ways to cool down and settle cravings for something cold and sweet make sure you avoid these three diet busters:

1. Denny’s Maple Bacon Sundae. Vanilla ice cream, maple syrup and bacon? I’m sure the thought of bacon flavor ice cream makes you cringe. To add insult to ice cream the of the nutrition facts (lack thereof) lists this 12oz serving as having 810 calories. Almost the same as eating an extra value meal from a fast-food joint.
2. Baskin-Robbins York Peppermint Pattie Brownie Sundae. This sundae has 1,610 calories!! Instead of this, try a single scoop of ice cream…you have 31 flavors to choose from.
3. Chili’s Chocolate Chip Paradise Pie. 1,590 calories; 76g of fat. This pie is equivalent to eating three Big Macs…which is more of a “threat” than a “treat”.

Instead of breaking the calorie bank on the aforementioned options try this:

DIY Sundae
½ cup of Breyers All Natural Vanilla Ice Cream
½ banana slice
6 strawberries
1 Tbsp of hot fudge
1 Tbsp chopped walnuts

1 Maraschino cheeryOnly 300 calories and just as delicious!!

Staying Alive, Staying Alive

I bet you didn’t know that June 1st through June 7th is CPR/AED Awareness Week. As we all know, knowing how to properly conduct CPR can be vital! Each year CPR saves thousands of lives. Every year, EMS teams treat nearly 300,000 cases of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. But anyone can learn CPR, not just EMS professionals. Knowing CPR can help you save a life…which in turn, sort of makes you a super hero! It only takes 22 minutes and all this week AHA and the Mayor’s office is providing free training and nifty take home kits.

The AHA recommends that CPR training should be required for graduation from secondary school and, specifically, that such training should include skills practice that will reinforce recognition of a possible cardiac arrest. Training should also include, at least, an awareness of the purpose of an AED, a device designed for use by non-medical bystanders that can restore a normal heart rhythm in many situations. For instance, wouldn’t you be able to breathe easier knowing that your child can provide CPR if ever needed?

If you’re in Houston join us at one of four locations to become CPR certified free of charge!!

June 1, 2011: Sunnyside MSC* 4607 Wilmington Street* Houston, TX* 9-5pm
June 2, 2011: Magnolia MSC* 7037 Capitol Street* Houston, TX* 9-5pm
June 3, 2011: The Southwest MSC* 6400 High Star* Houston, TX* 9-5pm
June 4, 2011: George R. Brown Convention Center* 1001 Avenida De Las Americas* 10-2pm


For more information click on the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=132958380113622#!/event.php?eid=132958380113622

Not Butts About It…Almost!

In just a few short days The 82nd Texas Legislative Session will come to close. Champion law makers, AHA supporters and staff and You’re the Cure advocates have been hard at work for the past five months working ever so diligently to pass a statewide law to make the great state of Texas Smoke- Free. If the law is passed there would be a complete ban on smoking in the workplaces that means places where you take your family like restaurants, bowling allies and movie theaters. It will save the state over $400 million in health care cost, $30 million in Medicaid care cost, but breathing clean air: PRICELESS!


As it stands, SB 1811 (the smoke-free amendment) is making strides in the legislature. Time is running out, but you can still make all the difference. Please click here to thank House members that voted YES and urge Senate members to do the same. We also want to thank Rep. Myra Crownover for her tireless work and dedication on this issue. All Texas have a right to breathe clean air as long as the stars at night are big and bright!

Ways you can help by simply using your smart phone:

1. Take action: Put that data plan to work by clicking here: http://bit.ly/kf37yQ Don’t forget to download the banner.
2. Go Viral: You have over 500 contacts in your open, 800 followers on Twitter and 3,000 friends on Facebook. Spread the word to your network by forwarding the message on to other potential advocates. Together you’re the cure.
3. Use those day time minutes: We know your plan has unlimited minutes and the fastest 4G network, so why not give your law makers a call and tell them to support SB1811.

Here is a list of people you can give a shout to:

o Dan Patrick, District 7 ( I-10 West between 610 and Bltwy 8 including Bunkers Hill, Piney Point and Hunters Creek, Katy and Tomball/Northwest Harris County out to Waller) (512) 463-0107 For map of Dan’s district and email information: http://www.senate.state.tx.us/75r/Senate/members/dist7/dist7.htm#District

o Tommy Williams, District 4 (Woodlands/Montgomery County, Liberty and Chamber Counties out to Beaumont) (512) 463-0104 For map of Tommy’s district and email information:
http://www.senate.state.tx.us/75r/Senate/members/dist4/dist4.htm

o Rob Duncan, District 28 (Lubbock area) (512) 463-0128

o Bob Deuell, District 2 (Greenville area) (512) 463-0102

o Royce West, District 23 (Dallas) (214) 467-0123

Knock, Knock! Who’s There? Strawberry!!

This weekend, try this delicious Strawberry-Basil Iced Green Tea recipe provided by the Food Trust. How can you not love a fruit brave enough to wear its seeds on the outside?

Strawberry-Basil Iced Green Tea
4-6 green tea teabags
2 big handfuls of fresh strawberries, half or quartered
1 small bunch of fresh basil leaves, torn
Local honey to taste (optional)

Divide the tea bags between two heatproof jars. In a tea kettle or small saucepan bring 3 cups of water almost to a boil then, divide the heated water evenly between the jars. Let steep for about 10 minutes, then pull out the tea bags and throw away. Stir in honey to taste if you like. Serve with strawberries and basil and then top off with ice. It’s refreshing and VERY low in calories especially when compared to sodas and sugary soft drinks.

Five Fun Facts About Strawberries
1. Strawberries, as part of a 5 a day fruit & veggie diet, can help reduce the risk of cancer & heart attacks.
2. Strawberries are low fat, low calorie; high in vitamin C, fiber, folic acid, potassium.
3. Strawberries are a member of the rose family. Eat a bouquet today!
4. Eating strawberries, which are rich in nitrate, can increase the flow of blood & oxygen to the muscles by 7%. This prevents muscle fatigue, making it easier to get your 30 minutes of exercise each day.
5. Americans eat 3.4 pounds of fresh strawberries each year plus another 1.8 pounds frozen per capita.

The Skinny at the State Capitol

After over five months of legislative bickering and banter, in about two weeks the session will come to a close. Thanks to AMAZING advocates and volunteers who all possess hearts of gold, the American Heart Association was able to make great progress on many of our priority issues that affect heat disease and stroke. These last days are extremely significant and we STILL need your assistance to help all Texans enjoy healthier lives free of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Here’s a rundown:

1. PE and Health: The largest single threat to PE and Health standards was defeated last night. HB 400 died when the clock struck midnight but efforts to weaken PE requirements in other bills are still a real possibility. You helped by making hundreds of calls and sending emails over the last week. Your efforts helped stall this legislation and preserve meaningful physical education in Texas schools.

2. Smoke-Free Texas: The smoke-free workplace bill was not voted on last night but bill author Myra Crownover has indicated she will try to amend another bill to include smoke-free workplaces. Some-free workplaces will make sure all family friendly establishments have clean, breathable air, free of second-hand carcinogens. If you haven’t had the chance, click here to support Smoke-Free Texas.

3. Heart and Stroke Funding: AHA has worked hard to keep important prevention funding in the state’s budget. Right now a select few lawmakers are making final determinations on what to include in the budget, and what to cut. We know that heart diseases and stroke funding is extremely important to you and people in your family, but legislators need to hear from you! Click here to take action and tell them to preserve heart and stroke prevention funding.

4. Trans-Fats in Schools: A bill that would remove trans-fats from school cafeterias has been passed by the Texas Senate and is awaiting approval in a House committee!! You can click here to thank Senators and ask House members to support trans-fat free lunches at school. It’s small steps like this that will make our state healthier.

An Amendment to Be…That Can End Texas PE?? Yikes!

At the Texas Capitol, House Bill 400 is being considered for vote. The bill aims to revise parts of the Education code; specifically the structure of Coordinated School Health Programs and the Fitnessgram. This affects P.E. standards in schools for the worse... it removed the standards completely. Students currently receive far less physical education than is necessary to reduce the statewide obesity rate.

To make matters worse, House Bill 400 has little to do with Physical Education or Health in the Education Code. Amendments to this bill could TOTALLY ELIMINATE Coordinated School Health Programs and the Fitnessgram from Texas Schools.

• As it stands 16% of all U.S. kids between the ages of 2-19 are obese according to a 2009 IOM report




• The state demographer ranks, Texas #14 in the nation in obesity rates




• The prevalence of obesity is so great that I can potentially reduce life expectancy and today’s generation.




• Amending HB 400, removing coordinated School Health Programs and Fitnessgram from Texas Schools will contribute to the problem.

If eliminating physical education from schools sound utterly crazy to you,
Call your State Representative and let them know that any amendments offered to House Bill 400 around the elimination of Coordinated School Health Programs or the Fitnessgram should not be supported under any circumstances.

Not sure who to call? Click on the links, enter your zip code, and make the call!!
http://www.fyi.legis.state.tx.us/
http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/Members/Members.aspx?Chamber=H

Obesity Ads in Georgia…Too Far or Truth?

Two months ago the state of Georgia Children’s Health Alliance created obesity prevention ads that they deemed “necessary to jar parents of obese kids out of a state of denial that their children had a problem won some enthusiastic praise for their attention-grabbing tactics ". The ads featured several children from different ethnic groups describing their current situation as it relates to obesity. While the ads suggest in your face obesity issues many parents and activities were outraged to say the least.

According to a Huffington Post article, (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/05/02/georgia-child-obesity-ads_n_856255.html) "Billboards depicting fat kids are extraordinarily harmful to the very kids they are supposedly trying to help," said the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance, which called for the billboards' removal.

Research shows that trends in obesity have increased significantly over the past decade. More families are eating out for meals, less kids are participating in physical activity, more snacks are readily available than fruits and vegetables.

Based on current U.S. trends in obesity do you think Georgia’s ads were too extreme? Or was it a hard truth pill for us to swallow?

Send us your feedback on our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/thelunchtray?sk=wall#!/ahahouston

Meanwhile, check out some of the ads.
Bobby’s Story: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3OZB6qKKzE8&feature=related
Tamika’s Story: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BnLGtbXPSt4&feature=related
Kevin’s Story: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-07bWzvMUs&feature=related

Pass the Peas

Looking for a heart healthy yummy snack? Try this Fresh Pea Hummus recipe

1. Bring a small pot of salt water to a boil. Add 1 cup of fresh shelled peas; cook until tender (about 2 minutes)
2. In a food processor, pulse peas, ¼ cup fresh cilantro, 2 Tbsp tahini, 2 Tbsp lemon juice, 1 small clove minced garlic, and 1/8 tsp ground cumin 30-40 seconds. Season with light salt. Serves 4

Nutrition Information Per Serving: 74 calories; 4g of fat (1 g saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 7 g carbs; 98 mg sodium; 3 g protein; 2 g fiber

Did you know? Peas contain hefty amounts of bone building vitamin K and folate, not to mention plenty of protein and fiber.

For more ways to eat healthy follow us on facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/ahahouston