On The Cutting Edge

Volume 31 Number 2
Spring 2010

Addressing Dietary Needs of Students in a Difficult Economy

Dora Rivas, MS, RD, SNS
Dallas ISD Food and Child Nutrition Services
Dallas, TX

Abstract

Growing up in South Texas in a family with diabetes-related medical issues, and now as a food service director and registered dietitian, I am sensitive to the needs of students with special dietary concerns, particularly students with diabetes. Our school meal patterns allow students and parents to work alongside the school nurse and cafeteria staff to ensure that special dietary needs are met. Managing diabetes is a challenge, especially in these difficult economic times. However, certain resources are available which help patients make healthy meal choices and control blood glucose levels. This article explores how one school district has addressed special dietary needs of students and how registered dietitians can work with school districts to ensure that the nutritional and special dietary needs of students with diabetes are met even in uncertain economic times.

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