American Heart Association CEO Nancy Brown Praises House Passage of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act

WASHINGTON, Dec. 2, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The U.S. House of Representatives has made a tremendous investment in the health of our nation's children with the historic passage of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act. The legislation, which enjoyed broad bipartisan support in the U.S. Senate, will give our kids a healthy start in life with access to nutritious meals and more opportunities for physical activity during the school day.  Removing junk food and sugary beverages from school vending machines and a la carte lines and strengthening wellness policies are necessary steps to help kids achieve and maintain a healthy weight.  And new research shows children who eat more fruits and vegetables are more likely to have healthier arteries as adults, lowering their risk for heart disease.  We strongly believe a healthier school environment will nurture academic achievement and reduce childhood obesity rates. With one in three American kids and teens overweight or obese, our youth are at greater risk for chronic illnesses that previously weren't seen until adulthood including high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.  Teaching kids to eat well and stay fit must become a priority not just at home, but in our schools and communities.

We commend Chairman George Miller (D-CA) and other House leaders for advancing the measure before the end of this Congress and urge the President to sign it into law quickly. The House vote is a victory for our nation as we work towards improving the health and well-being of our children. 

SOURCE American Heart Association