Fuel up To Play 60 is an in-school nutrition and physical activity program. The program is sponsored by the National Dairy Council, local Dairy Councils and the National Football League. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and many National Health Organizations support this movement in student health. More than 60,000 schools across the country are involved in this program and each of our Brevard Public Schools is signed up and need your support!
The ultimate goal of this program is to make health and wellness changes that are sustainable for students. This program encourages movement of at least 60 minutes daily as well as eating low fat and fat free milk, fruits, vegetables and whole grains every day. It is not only about choosing these healthy foods, but also about eating the right portion sizes for their age. Students taking part in school meals have the opportunity to consume low fat or fat free milk, fresh fruits, vegetables and healthy choice entrees daily. The need for reaching the goal of this program comes at a critical time as one-third of American children are overweight or obese. According to the Centers for Disease Control, obesity has tripled and almost quadrupled from the last generation.
Fueling up with low fat or fat free dairy provides essential nutrients such as potassium, calcium, protein, phosphorus, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin A, D and B12. To build strong bones, teeth, and muscles, you should aim for three servings daily. Eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables will provide fiber, vitamins and minerals that will keep you fit and healthy. Don’t forget to fuel up with whole grains! Whole grains are important sources of fiber, vitamins, minerals, energy and best of all keep you healthy! Whole grains include whole wheat breads, oatmeal, popcorn and whole grain cereals and pastas. Check out food labels for “100% Whole Wheat”. Don’t forget to round out your healthy eating choices with 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Visit www.nflrush.com for many Play 60 possibilities!
Students can get started by logging onto www.fueluptoplay60.com. By clicking “join now”, they will be asked a series of questions and be able to make their healthy eating pledge. Students can then keep track of their physical activity and healthy eating online. Parents and school staff can also join and be supporters of the school, keeping the enthusiasm high for wellness. The Fuel up To 60 website offers many tools and resources for school communities to work together for change. Also available online is a “Playbook” which features healthy eating and physical activity plays that students can join in and take part of. Grant applications can be filled out on-line for funding to purchase materials that support wellness initiatives that require additional money.
Eat right. Stay active. Learn more about healthy eating and physical activity at www.fueluptoplay60.com.