Nutritional Guidelines and WIC Program Updates: Empowering Families for Better Health

This podcast episode, hosted by Dr. Karen Schatzina from East Tennessee State University, features guest Dr. Michelle Johnson, an associate professor and dietetic internship program director. They explore the vital role of nutrition in the health and wellbeing of mothers and families, discussing dietary guidelines, the impacts of nutrition on health, and upcoming enhancements to the WIC program. These enhancements are in line with the latest dietary guidelines, aiming to offer more flexibility, balance, and choice in nutritional support to low-income families, pregnant women, and children up to age 5. The conversation also highlights the importance of incorporating nutrient-dense foods into diets and provides insights into how these guidelines and WIC program changes can help address nutritional barriers faced by families in specific regions like the Appalachian Highlands.

00:00 Welcome to Growing Stronger Together Podcast
01:00 Introducing Dr. Michelle Johnson: A Journey from Psychology to Nutrition
04:43 The Importance of Nutrition for Moms and Families in Appalachia
07:57 Diving Deep into Dietary Guidelines for Americans
14:46 Upcoming Changes to the WIC Program: What to Expect
35:29 Exploring Additional Nutrition Support Programs
38:53 Closing Thoughts and Resources

Resources: https://www.tn.gov/health/health-program-areas/fhw/wic.html

Thanks for listening!

Financial support for Growing Stronger Together is provided through a Community Health Improvement Site Investment from Ballad Health’s Department of Population Health and through competitive funding from Tennessee Department of Health's Maternal Mortality Prevention program.

Music derived from Song: Justhea - Happy

Music provided by Vlog No Copyright Music.

Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0

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Produced by Mitch McGarry with Maypop Media