The long-awaited 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans have been released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The recommendations, designed to assist Americans in achieving lifelong health, are strikingly similar to the standards we have held at SAGE for more than 25 years.
The five basic guidelines:1. Follow a healthy eating pattern across the lifespan. 2. Focus on variety, nutrient density, and amount. 3. Limit calories from added sugars and saturated fats and reduce sodium intake. 4. Shift to healthier food and beverage choices. 5. Support healthy eating patterns for all.
This confirms what we already know-- eating a variety of made-from-scratch foods is the best way stay healthy. But, SAGE doesn't just nourish with fresh, real food everyday. We also educate our school communities, fostering a nutritional awareness that lasts a lifetime.
The SAGE Spotlight Program® color codes menu items, providing cues about the nutritional value of each choice. Diners are urged to moderate foods with saturated fats, added sugar, and sodium and encouraged to choose the most nutrient-dense options. For those with allergies or other dietary restrictions, we provide an allergen filter on our online menu system, ensuring balanced, safe meals for everyone. Our Educational Seasonings program provides enriching opportunities for students to learn about food's importance in culture or history.
Every day, SAGE adheres to the principles of variety, balance and moderation. Every day, we are living these guidelines, creating an environment for children, teens, and adults to develop a positive relationship with food.
