Traditionally, Nutrition Programs Were Targeted to the Indigent and Poor Populations in Developing Countries. Many of Today's Americans Are Malnourished Also, but They Are Glutted with a Wealth of Unhealthy Foods and

The preventable diseases like heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and renal failure have become an epidemic in our society. It seems like most of every one we know has either one of above mentioned diseases. Back in the days not everyone was able to afford good quality food, so whatever they ate they ate in moderation, on the other hand now food is more affordable, due to cheap imports from other countries. People have made up a mentality that if less food is good then more should be better, which is not always true. Most of this health care crisis is due to lack of public health education. As health care professionals we know that poor nutrition is responsible for the majority of preventable diseases, while general public has no idea about what goes on in their bodies and what is the importance of proper nutrition. First point which I am going to include in a public nutrition program is Heart disease. Heart disease is responsible for 600,000 deaths in the United States every year–that’s 1 in every 4 deaths. Heart disease alone cost the United States $108.9 million each year, total cost includes, cost of health care services, medications and lost productivity. Heart disease is preventable, if the individual just stops smoking, eats low sodium, low cholesterol, and low fat diet and exercises routinely. The second point is going to be Obesity. Obesity is defined as having an excessive amount of body fat. Obesity is more than just a cosmetic concern. It increases your risk of diseases and health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart diseases. Lack of education, irresponsible eating habits and poor selections of foods are responsible for this preventable disease. Third point will be to put more emphasis on consuming foods which could contribute to improving the quality of life and the feeling of well being. These foods are green vegetables and fruits. These food items are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Our body needs these substances to function properly and they are also known to improve mood and help manage stress. If an individual feels good, he will be ready to make some positive changes in his life.

Reference: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/obesity/DS00314 http://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm