Discussion
1- I really like your three ideas about what you would incorporate in a public nutrition program. Easy shopping lists and recipe lists would be so helpful. Even if grocery stores had information about recipes and healthy foods that the public could pick up while shopping. It seems that there is so much information on different diets, that some people get confused as to what is actually healthy.
2- I agree with your point on the surplus of food and it not being nutritious. It's sad if you look at the what people receive in a lot of the food banks and welfare offices. Big blocks of processed cheese and unfortunately most of the shelves contain few fruits and vegetables and lots of processed high carb foods. I know it's better than nothing but I wish we pushed for healthier food in those places. These are the socioeconomic struggles in depressed areas yet I don't feel we help enough with this topic. Not sure if more strict guidelines of what can be purchased with food stamps would help. You brought up all very valid points.
3- I agree with you. Creating a well-balanced diet is so important in eating healthy. The food pyramid is a good step or direction to follow, because it shows how many servings of each food group to eat. Too much of anything is not good, but in moderation and must be balanced. Eating a balanced diet is the main idea of the food pyramid. If followed accordingly, a well-balanced diet will be created and maintained. Also, making a shopping list before visiting the grocery store you mentioned in your last paragraph is a good idea. Sometimes you go to the store, and start buying things you did not think about before leaving the house. Making a shopping list of healthy foods will serve as guidance, and such individual must discipline his/herself to strictly follow what they have written down.