Food And Nutrition Board Of The Institute Of Medicine
The Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) of the Institute of Medicine (IOM) is a non-profit organization that provides expert advice to the public, policymakers, and healthcare professionals on matters related to food, nutrition, and health. The FNB was established in 1940 as part of the National Academy of Sciences, and since then, it has been at the forefront of scientific research, policy development, and public education in the field of nutrition.
What Is The Role Of The Food And Nutrition Board?
The primary role of the FNB is to provide independent, evidence-based advice and recommendations on matters related to food and nutrition. This includes assessing the nutritional needs of different populations, evaluating the safety and effectiveness of food and dietary supplements, and developing guidelines and standards for healthy eating.
The FNB also conducts research and analyzes data to better understand the links between food, nutrition, and health. This research helps to inform public policy and guide healthcare professionals in their work with patients.
What Are The Key Areas Of Focus For The FNB?
The FNB has several key areas of focus, including:
- Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs): The FNB develops DRIs, which are a set of guidelines that provide information on the nutrient needs of different populations. DRIs are used by healthcare professionals and policymakers to develop nutrition policies and programs.
- Food Safety: The FNB evaluates the safety of food and dietary supplements, and makes recommendations on how to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
- Nutrition Education: The FNB develops educational materials to help the public make informed decisions about their food choices.
- Nutrition and Chronic Disease: The FNB conducts research and develops guidelines on the relationship between nutrition and chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
What Are Some Of The Major Achievements Of The FNB?
Over the years, the FNB has made several major contributions to the field of nutrition. Some of its most notable achievements include:
- The Development Of DRIs: The FNB has developed DRIs for several nutrients, including vitamin D, calcium, and iron. These guidelines have helped healthcare professionals and policymakers develop effective nutrition programs and policies.
- The Establishment Of Dietary Guidelines For Americans: The FNB played a key role in the development of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which provide recommendations for healthy eating and physical activity. These guidelines are updated every five years and are widely used by healthcare professionals and policymakers.
- The Promotion Of Breastfeeding: The FNB recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding along with the introduction of complementary foods. This recommendation has helped to increase the rate of breastfeeding in the United States.
- The Identification Of Nutrient Gaps: The FNB has identified several nutrient gaps in the American diet, including vitamin D, calcium, and potassium. This has led to increased awareness of the importance of these nutrients and efforts to increase their intake.
Conclusion
The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine is a vital organization that plays a key role in promoting healthy eating and nutrition. Its work has helped to shape public policy, educate the public, and guide healthcare professionals in their work with patients. By providing evidence-based recommendations and guidelines, the FNB has helped to improve the health and well-being of millions of people in the United States and around the world.