Childhood health and nutrition has gained national attention in recent years.
According to a study conducted by the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research, 38 percent of children in California and 34.5 percent in San Diego County are overweight or obese. Although Carlsbad has one of the lowest child obesity rates in the entire county at 16.8 percent, the unfortunate news is that one in six of our youngsters is vulnerable to weight-related health problems, now and in the future.
Our district's wellness program is focused on good nutrition, physical activity and healthy living to combat these statistics. In April, we also launched a World-Class Wellness program that promotes healthy habits among our staff.
We Have Great Taste in Nutrition
During a recent state audit, Carlsbad's nutrition program received very high marks.
According to Michelle Johnson, the CUSD director of nutrition and purchasing, "Before certain requirements became law, we were ahead of the nutrition curve. For example, we have never used deep fryers. Our food has no trans fats. The kids love our baked crinkle-cut potatoes, not because they're healthier than fast-food fries, but because they taste great!"
Beginning this fall, students at all elementary schools will enjoy a tempting salad bar, while secondary students will be able to choose from a variety of mixed salad options. Additionally, our daily menu consists of a meat/meat alternative, whole grain bread, fruit, milk and five different vegetable subgroups. Menu selections are low in fat and sodium and high in fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.
The Business of Health
Nutrition Director Johnson not only keeps up with nutritional guidelines, but also taste-tests the food our students eat.
"Basically, we operate 13 restaurants, one at each site," said Johnson. "The revenue we earn from food sales covers all expenses, from food costs and labor to equipment."
The District is committed to ensuring the health and well-being of our 11,000 students. We hope our healthy eating habits campaign filters into every household.
Follow Dr. Lovely at www.twitter.com/SuptLovely.
According to a study conducted by the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research, 38 percent of children in California and 34.5 percent in San Diego County are overweight or obese. Although Carlsbad has one of the lowest child obesity rates in the entire county at 16.8 percent, the unfortunate news is that one in six of our youngsters is vulnerable to weight-related health problems, now and in the future.
Our district's wellness program is focused on good nutrition, physical activity and healthy living to combat these statistics. In April, we also launched a World-Class Wellness program that promotes healthy habits among our staff.
We Have Great Taste in Nutrition
During a recent state audit, Carlsbad's nutrition program received very high marks.
According to Michelle Johnson, the CUSD director of nutrition and purchasing, "Before certain requirements became law, we were ahead of the nutrition curve. For example, we have never used deep fryers. Our food has no trans fats. The kids love our baked crinkle-cut potatoes, not because they're healthier than fast-food fries, but because they taste great!"
Beginning this fall, students at all elementary schools will enjoy a tempting salad bar, while secondary students will be able to choose from a variety of mixed salad options. Additionally, our daily menu consists of a meat/meat alternative, whole grain bread, fruit, milk and five different vegetable subgroups. Menu selections are low in fat and sodium and high in fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.
The Business of Health
Nutrition Director Johnson not only keeps up with nutritional guidelines, but also taste-tests the food our students eat.
"Basically, we operate 13 restaurants, one at each site," said Johnson. "The revenue we earn from food sales covers all expenses, from food costs and labor to equipment."
The District is committed to ensuring the health and well-being of our 11,000 students. We hope our healthy eating habits campaign filters into every household.
Follow Dr. Lovely at www.twitter.com/SuptLovely.