Morehead State University
Identification of Nutrient Dense Lower Sodium Food Choices from Local Fast Food Menus
Institution
Morehead State University
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Stephanie Johnson; Donna Corley
Abstract
Obesity is recognized as a national health care issue. The Center for Disease Control reports 60% of adolescence consume too much fat and only about one-third of young adults meet the recommended intake for fruits and vegetables. Eating out contributes to high fat, high sodium and decreased nutrient intake. Purpose: This study investigated fast food menus for low sodium, nutrient dense food choices meeting USADA recommendations for young adults. Methods: Local restaurant menus were analyzed for macronutrient and sodium content. "Healthier" selections were placed in daily menus. Findings: A daily food plan meeting USADA recommendations was not easily identified but was available in most restaurants. Conclusions: Careful selection from restaurant menus can provide healthier choices for eating out.
Identification of Nutrient Dense Lower Sodium Food Choices from Local Fast Food Menus
Obesity is recognized as a national health care issue. The Center for Disease Control reports 60% of adolescence consume too much fat and only about one-third of young adults meet the recommended intake for fruits and vegetables. Eating out contributes to high fat, high sodium and decreased nutrient intake. Purpose: This study investigated fast food menus for low sodium, nutrient dense food choices meeting USADA recommendations for young adults. Methods: Local restaurant menus were analyzed for macronutrient and sodium content. "Healthier" selections were placed in daily menus. Findings: A daily food plan meeting USADA recommendations was not easily identified but was available in most restaurants. Conclusions: Careful selection from restaurant menus can provide healthier choices for eating out.