Dissemination of nutritional knowledge in Germany - Nutrition circle, 3D food pyramid and 10 nutrition guidelines

Abstract

Background/Aims: Presentation of the general concept of the German Nutrition Society for a successful dissemination of nutritional knowledge. Methods: Evaluation of actual material used for nutrition education and teaching. Results: In Germany, different validated instruments on the basis of actual scientific evidence are available. Quantitative aspects can be easily enlightened with the help of the Nutrition Circle. Information concerning optimal personal behavior (lifestyle) is transported using a flyer with 10 Nutrition Guidelines. The 3D Food Guide Pyramid is an encouraging new instrument to establish new teaching programs with a high level of acceptance. It is planned to establish target-specific food guide pyramids, e.g. for adolescents, aged persons (considering gender), people with increased physical activity and others. Tests with target groups (health professionals, teachers, young consumers) showed a high rate of acceptance and demonstrated successful application of the German concept of dissemination of dietary guidelines. Conclusion: Using modern communication technology, it is feasible for the consumers and the health professionals to download gender- and age-specific scientific information as well as validated tools for successful nutrition education. Copyright © 2007 S. Karger AG.