Sugar and fat--Moderation for good health

A self-study unit on sugar and fat moderation is presented to afford ASFSA members an opportunity for professional growth, and to earn continuing education credits. USDA in conjunction with the Dept. of Health and Human Services presented guidelines for improving dietary intake. Included were recommendations for avoiding too much sugar, and avoiding too much fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol. Fat is an essential dietary component which carries essential nutrients and which protects vital organs. The family of fats is discussed, as are the dietary sources and risk factors associated with the consumption of too much fat, saturated fat and cholesterol. Cholesterol and saturated fat appear to have a causal relationship to coronary heart disease. Two tables present findings from a 15 year study, called The Bogalusa Heart Study, which evaluated blood pressure, cholesterol, dietary, and smoking habits. Sugar provides energy to the body, and is quickly digested. Sugar consumption is high for many people and often replaces calories from other carbohydrate sources which contain more nutrients. Table 4 shows the nutrient composition of 6 common foods, including sugar. Nine suggestions to reduce sugar consumption are provided. Sugar consumption is associated with obesity and dental decay. USDA's Menu Planning Guide offers 4 ways to moderate fat and sugar intake. 1) Menu planning can help achieve a reduction in fat and sugar intake by modifying recipes, reducing the number of foods high in sugar and fat, and replacing them with foods moderate or low in fat and sugar. Two tables provide information on ingredients commonly used in food preparation, and on adjusting recipes to reduce fat and sugar. 2) Food purchasing tips are given such as reading labels, requesting nutrition information on a product, and reviewing food specifications. 3) Selecting recipes or altering recipes to contain less fat and sugar. 4) Examining food production techniques to determine if fat and sugar can be reduced. A list of 22 references, plus test questions are included. (kbc)