For Immediate Release
March 13, 2007
Contact: Laura Buffum
732-751-7537
lbuffum@meridianhealth.com

K. HOVNANIAN CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AND MONMOUTH COUNCIL OF GIRL SCOUTS TO HOST HEALTHY EATING PROGRAM

Neptune, NJ - On Thursday, April 26 at 10:00 a.m., K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, in conjunction with Monmouth Council of Girl Scouts, will be hosting a program titled “Healthy Eating and Nutrition for Children and Teens” at the Girl Scouts Activity Room, 127 Yellowbrooke Road, Farmingdale.

Eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and obesity, in children and adolescents are serious issues with many health and social consequences that often continue into adulthood. At this program, a registered dietitian will discuss these issues and discuss overall optimal health and wellness in young people.

“According to the American Obesity Association, about 15% of children ages six to 19 are obese, therefore, it is imperative to understand the importance of healthy eating for young people. All who attend this program will learn ways to incorporate healthy nutrition into the lives of children and teens,” explained Debra Dobies, registered dietitian of Meridian Health, who will be leading this program.

Youth leaders, educators, school nurses, parents, and children are all welcome to this discussion on healthy food choices, causes and prevention of obesity, eating disorders, and related topics. Professional development hours will be provided to all educators who attend. To register for this program, call 732-938-5454, extension 56.

About Jersey Shore University Medical Center
Jersey Shore University Medical Center, a member of the Meridian Health family, is a not-for-profit university teaching hospital affiliate of UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Home to the K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital, the first state-designated children’s hospital in the region; the top-rated cardiac surgery program in the State; and the only trauma center in Monmouth and Ocean counties, Jersey Shore University Medical Center specializes in cardiac care and surgery, orthopedics and rehabilitation, cancer care, and advanced women’s and children’s health services. For more information about the Jersey Shore University Medical Center Cancer Center and Jersey Shore University Medical Center please call the Meridian Health Line at 1-800-560-9990 or visit www.meridianhealth.com.

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