Presenter: Barbara Jirka, PhD, Nutritionist, USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion
About the Session:
More than half of adults in the U.S. have one or more chronic diseases that are related to physical inactivity and food choices. Although most individuals understand the benefits of eating healthy, they simply lack the skills and motivation to change their eating routines and behaviors.
The Start Simple with MyPlate campaign will provide ideas and tips from the five MyPlate food groups Americans can easily incorporate into their busy lives to help improve their health and well-being over time. There are many ideas that fit a variety of food preferences, health goals, lifestyles, and budgets. Starting simple can lead to realistic and positive lifestyle changes to achieve a longer and healthier life. Attend this session to learn more about the resources and tools to launch and promote the #StartSimplewithMyPlate campaign in your classroom, community, or organization.
After this session, attendees will be able to:
- Gain understanding of the new campaign;
- Identify simple tips and ways to help consumers improve daily food choices;
- Explore campaign resources and tools (graphics, widgets, action guides, & much more) for use;
- Use the new online tool, MyPlate Plan, for a personalized food plan.
About the Presenter(s):
Barbara Jirka, PhD, is a Nutritionist with the USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion. Her work at USDA began with Team Nutrition developing nutrition education materials. Currently, she works with the MyPlate Nutrition Communicators Network and coordinates the 112 MyPlate National Strategic Partners. Barbara holds a MS degree in Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a PhD in Foodservice Systems Administration/Management from Iowa State University. She began her career as a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher in Omaha, Nebraska!