October

October 2001: Highlights from the Journal of the American Dietetic Association

Below are summaries of several nutrition research articles published in the October 2001 issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. For more information, or to receive a copy of a JADA article, please call Bridget McManamon 800/877-1600, ext. 4769; or e-mail bmcmana@eatright.org.

Physical activity: Make it a habit

Getting your regular dose of physical activity? If you've preferred a couch potato-like lifestyle, new research from Arizona State University may make you want to lace up your running shoes. Researchers examined the effects of habitual physical activity on metabolism and percentage of body fat in active women compared to sedentary 35- to- 50-year-old women. Results showed that percentage of body fat was lower and resting metabolic rate was significantly higher in habitually active women (those who engaged in physical activity nine hours per week for at least 10 years) compared with sedentary women (approximately one hour per week of physical activity.) Researchers suggest that dietitians and other health professionals should encourage lifelong physical activity for women of all ages.

ADA revised position statement:
Breaking the barriers to breast feeding

The number of breast-fed infants is increasing thanks to national efforts to promote the benefits of breast feeding. However, fewer than one-third of infants are breast-fed beyond six months of age, and risk missing out on potential health benefits. Age, race, socioeconomic status and cultural barriers are several reasons why breast feeding practices are cut short. Breast feeding offers physical, emotional and practical benefits for both infants and mothers. The position statement is updated from the 1997 version.

ADA's position statement is as follows:

It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that broad-based efforts are needed to break the barriers to breast feeding initiation and duration. Exclusive breast feeding for six months and breast feeding with complementary foods for at least 12 months is the ideal feeding pattern for infants. Increases in initiation and duration are needed to realize the health, nutritional, immunological, psychological, economical and environmental benefits of breast feeding.