MEDIA RELEASE: 10^th April 2003

Despite the numerous 'quick-fix' weight loss suggestions and the continuing debate over the best diet (high protein vs more carbohydrate and others!) it remains that it is the balance between the energy we take in through food and the energy we use through our daily activity which decides the fate of our body fat levels.

To provide an environment which encourages better health and less overweight for children there are a few things that can be done:

• Encourage your children to be active - be a role model and join in!
• Plan healthy evening meals that are easy to prepare and fit into your busy schedule
• If you are buying fast food avoid the 'upsized' portions which
  have a high load of extra fat
• Keep soft drinks and confectionery items to 'occasional' foods
• Look for healthy foods that help you to feel full
• Encourage your children to develop their cooking skills (turn a blind eye to the mess!!)

If you are looking for some new recipe ideas that your family can enjoy, contact Nutrition Australia (www.nutritionaustralia.org) for their publication "Healthy Food for Families" - a cookbook that is full of nutritious and tasty meal ideas for people of all ages.

- ENDS -

For Further Information and Story Opportunities Contact:

Aloysa Hourigan
Senior Nutritionist
Mobile: 0417 078 956
Nutrition Australia (Qld.)
Phone: 07-3257 4393
Fax: 07-3257 4616
Email: qld@NutritionAustralia.org

George Angelos
Public Health Nutritionist
Nutrition Australia (NSW)
Phone: 02-4221 5346
Fax.: 02-4221 5717
Email: nsw@nutritionaustralia.org

Lucinda Dobson
Executive Officer
Nutrition Australia (Vic.)
Phone/Fax: 03 - 9528 2453
Email: vic@nutritionaustralia.org

Back to Media Releases