Encouraging children to eat their veges!

Many parents struggle to get their children to eat  vegetables. The Australian National Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (1) found only 25% of children aged 2-8 years eat the recommended 2-4 serves of vegetables per day. For those aged 9-16 years, only 1-11% are meeting recommended intakes. A Dutch study has looked at whether giving children a choice of vegetables at mealtimes increases their liking and intake of vegetables compared to when given no choice (2) . 

World Salt Awareness Week - February 1-7

This week is World Salt Awareness Week focussing on salt and its effect on our health. Evidence shows that too much salt causes high blood pressure, with its adverse affects on the brain, heart, and kidneys. Too much salt is also linked to osteoporosis, obesity and stomach cancer. The Australian Division of  World Action on Salt and Health (AWASH) is asking the Australian government to set salt target levels for processed and takeaway foods as 75% of the salt we consume comes from processed foods.

What to eat and drink if pregnant or planning a pregnancy

Foods Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has released an information pack containing brochures, fact sheets, web videos and a web seminar with the latest advice on what to eat and drink during pregnancy and while planning a pregnancy.