ARS | Publication request: Applying Nutrition Science to the Public's Health

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: August 30, 2003
Publication Date: January 1, 2006
Citation: O'Neil, C.E., Nicklas, T.A. 2006. Applying nutrition science to the public's health. In: Edelstein S., editor. Nutrition in Public Health: A Handbook for Developing Programs and Services, 2nd edition. Sudbury, MA:Jones & Bartlett Publishers. p. 17-80.

Technical Abstract: There is a bewildering array of nutrition information available to the public and to professionals. Nutrition messages are often conflicting, confusing, and often simply rhetoric. More consumer research is needed to understand more fully the best way to communicate health messages, recommendations, and dietary guidance to the public. The challenge for nutrition professionals is to evaluate critically the scientific evidence before it is translated into public health practice. Nutrition professionals need to bring positive recommendations to the public in a unified way to assure that consumers are getting the best possible information available that allows them to make positive lifestyle changes.