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Nutrition Health Resources

When dealing with something as important to your health as proper nutrition, you want to be certain your information is reliable and backed by sound scientific data. Among a number of trustworthy resources is the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, released in early 2011 by the U.S. Agriculture Secretary and the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.

  1. U.S. Department of Agriculture

    • Plug nutrition.gov into your web browser for a host of information regarding your health, nutrition and fitness. This U.S. government site offers suggestions on diet and weight loss, and information regarding healthy kids. You will find the U.S. Department of Agriculture's food pyramid here as well. Nutrition.gov has links to information that is invaluable for you and your family to research and map out your nutritional needs using its guidelines and links. The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans are linked to the USDA's Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (see Resources).

    American Dietetic Association

    • As the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals, this resource provides accurate scientific information for the public about nutrition, weight loss, and food safety at eatright.org. The Public Information page also includes links to nutrition information in Spanish and Chinese. For professionals, being a member of the ADA gives you access to the latest nutritional news and research, and information about career and job opportunities in the dietetic field.

    Let's Move!

    • A nutritional resource from the U.S. government focusing on raising healthy kids, Letsmove.gov is an Internet resource that is invaluable to the conscientious parent or caregiver, offering a host of tools and support to help you achieve the goal of raising kids who understand the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Let's Move's "Eat Healthy" pages (see Resources) offer the latest information available to help you meet your nutritional needs.

    Healthcare Professionals

    • Nutritionists, who study and become licensed in the way the body works and utilizes food, vitamins and minerals, are an excellent resource if you are embarking on a healthy lifestyle. While following nutritional guidelines is always a good idea, there is not always a one-size-fits-all solution, and consulting with a nutritionist can offer you individualized advice. You can also ask about nutritional requirements from your family doctor. Your doctor may be able to direct you to a nutritionist if you have special health requirements, such as being over- or underweight, or suffering from nutritional deficiencies. Finally, ask your pharmacist, who can be a trusted source of free information on many things. Provide your pharmacist a brief overview of any special considerations regarding your health so he can give you accurate nutritional advice.

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