Nutrition Education
The combination of proper nutrition and regular participation in physical activity is important for the health of all persons. Practicing good nutrition and physical activity habits on a daily basis is necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The Physical Activity Mentoring Program emphasizes proper nutrition and provides a nutrition education workshop each session for all participants.
The nutrition workshop is presented by Kris Greany, a registered dietician, who teaches nutrition education courses at UW-La Crosse. Each 8-week mentoring program has a required 2-hour nutrition education workshop during the first few weeks. This workshop is composed of two separate sessions at the same time. One session is for parents/guardians and mentors, and the other session is a fun, interactive learning environment for mentees.
The session for the parents/guardians and mentors presents nutrition information to model and to provide good nutrition to the mentees. Content emphasizes practical nutrition information about healthy snacks, beverages, shopping, fast food, and balanced meals. Topics such as the relationship among nutrition, physical activity, and body weight are discussed. Parents and mentors are encouraged to ask questions about nutrition and physical activity.
The session for the mentees provides basic nutrition information while participating in organized physical activity and health-related games. The mentees help make a nutritious snack and get to eat it at the end of the session. This session is a great way for the mentees to learn about how to practice healthy physical activity and nutrition habits while having fun!
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