Chronic Kidney Disease: Phosphorus and Your Diet

Figure 1. Food preparation area in the home kitchen
Phosphorous is an essential mineral necessary for the formation of bones and teeth, but also for kidney function and the regulation of muscle contractions, heartbeat, and nerve transmission. High blood levels of phosphorus may lead to adverse effects on bone, kidney, and heart health. When there is too much phosphorus in the blood, the body reacts by leaching calcium from the bones. This can be especially dangerous for those with Chronic Kidney Disease. This four-page fact sheet discusses the relationship between Chronic Kidney Disease and Phosphorous intake, examining foods that are high in phosphorous and ways to manage phosphorous levels. Written by Nancy J. Gal, Lauren Headrick, Kate Bennett, and Wendy J. Dahl, and published by the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fs273

Facts about Farm to School

Figure 1. School districts in all 50 states are purchasing from local farmers. Credit: iStock/Thinkstock.comFarm to school is a nationwide program that improves the supply of fresh, local produce to schools by building relationships between local farmers and schools. Over the past 20 years, school districts in all 50 states have joined the F2S program and are purchasing items from local farmers. Recent requirements for more fruit and vegetables in the National School Lunch Programs have made the F2S program more popular than ever. The University of Florida is committed to the Farm to School program and is working closely with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to connect farmers to schools. This 3-page fact sheet was written by Samantha Ward, Lauren Headrick, and Karla Shelnutt, and published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, December 2014. (Photo: iStock/Thinkstock.com)
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fy1450

A Guide to Meal Replacements (FCS8998/FY1283)

Figure 1.  Meal replacements are snack-size foods with the same amount of nutrition as a full meal. These foods are a great way to get the calories and nutrients you need when eating a meal is not possible.Many older Americans have problems eating enough to get the calories and nutrients needed for good health. Multiple factors such as disease, money, physical conditions, and access to food and food preparation areas can affect your nutritional status. Consuming meal replacements is one way to offset the effects of these factors. This 3-page fact sheet will help you decide if meal replacements are right for you. Written by Lauren Headrick and Linda B. Bobroff and published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, March 2012.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fy1283

Raising Healthy Children: Food Allergies (FCS8997/FY1282)

Raising Healthy Children series imageIf your child with a newly diagnosed food allergy, you may feel scared, confused, and anxious. You are not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over three million children under the age of 18 have food allergies, and this number is growing rapidly. Food allergies can be caused by many different foods. The symptoms range from a mild skin rash to serious breathing problems. This 4-page fact sheet highlights the causes and symptoms of an allergic reaction, as well as the steps to take if your child has been diagnosed with a food allergy. Also included are recipes and possible changes to your family’s diet that can help make meal time easier. Written by Lauren Headrick, Karla P. Shelnutt, and Gail P. A. Kauwell, and published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, March 2012.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fy1282

The Skinny on Low-fat and Fat-free Milk and Milk Products (FCS8938/FY1220)

Whether you are young or old, consuming fat-free and low-fat milk products every day is important for good health. This 5-page fact sheet highlights the purpose of including foods from the Milk group in the diet and the daily amounts needed for children and adults. It also includes helpful hints for those who are lactose intolerant. Lastly, there are tips for how to increase your daily intake of milk and milk products. Written by Lauren Headrick and Karla P. Shelnutt, and published by the UF Department of Family Youth and Community Sciences, April 2011.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fy1220