Looking for science-based advice to help you live a healthier and longer life? Look no further, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, released in 2005, is your source to reach achievable goals in weight control, build stronger muscles and bones, and get advice on proper nutrition. This information will help to prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.
The Dietary Guidelines have become the cornerstone of federal nutrition policy and education. They are based on what experts have determined to be the best scientific knowledge about diet and physical activity. Other areas discussed in the book include how to prepare food to keep it safe and wholesome and what exactly we should be eating to stay healthy.
These Guidelines influence the direction of government nutrition programs, including research, labeling, and nutrition promotion. The Food Guide Pyramid has been updated to reflect the new Dietary Guidelines. Government programs utilizing the principles in the Dietary Guidelines include the USDA's School Meal and Food Stamp Programs, and the WIC Program (Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children).
Balancing nutrients is not enough to maintain a healthy life. Counting calories has become increasingly important as Americans continue to gain weight. Almost two thirds of Americans are overweight or obese and more than half do not get enough physical activity. The Guidelines place a stronger emphasis on calorie control and physical activity.
There are 41 key recommendations, of which 23 are for the general public and 18 are for special populations. They are grouped into nine general topics:
* Adequate nutrients within calorie needs
* Weight management
* Physical activity
* Food groups to encourage
* Fats
* Carbohydrates
* Sodium and potassium
* Alcoholic beverages, and
* Food safety.
The 2005 Dietary Guidelines and consumer brochure are available at the United States Department of Health & Human Services Web site: http://www.healthierus.gov/dietaryguidelines/.
Label Error for Goldline Brand Extra Strength Genapap Caplets
IVAX Pharmaceuticals, Inc. of Miami, FL initiated a recall of their Goldline brand Extra Strength Genapap 500 mg (acetaminophen) caplets and tablets and Extra Strength Genebs 500 mg (acetaminophen) caplets and tablets. The products are being recalled due to a labeling error. The product label should indicate that usage should not exceed 8 tablets or caplets in a 24-hour period. The incorrect label indicates not to exceed 12 tablets or caplets in a 24-hour period. If the maximum dosage of 8 tablets or caplets is exceeded in a 24-hour period, there may be an increased risk of acetaminophen toxicity to the liver, which may cause adverse health effects. No reports of serious illness or injury relating to this error have been received.
Consumers are encouraged to check the lot numbers on Extra Strength Genapap 500-mg caplets and tablets or Extra Strength Genebs 500-mg caplets or tablets and return the product to the location of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact +1-866-262-1243.
Lot numbers for the product recall are listed on the FDA's recall notice at the following Web site: http://www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/ivax05_06.html.
Doris J. Mosocco, RN, BSN, CHCE, COSC