Yes, studies have shown that most people eat way too much saturated fats, sugar, and sodium and do not get their daily amounts of fruits and vegetables. A rehabilitation house for men in Jefferson County participated in the Kentucky Nutrition Education Program through the Jefferson County Cooperative Extension Service.  The program: Eating Healthy for Everybody was offered and lessons on MY Plate and Knowing the Limits were taught. The benefits of eating more fruits and vegetables were discussed as well and reducing the daily amounts for saturated fats, sugar and sodium. A fresh Kale, Raisin, and Almond Salad with a Lemon Vinaigrette was prepared by the group.

Twenty three men graduated from the program and after analyzing the data there was an increase in fruit and vegetable consumption by 65%.  The data also showed a decrease in the group’s daily calorie intake from eating foods high in saturated fat, sodium, and sugar. The Calorie intake from eating these foods decreased from 468.1 to 267.4, for an 83% positive change. After studying the amount of sugar that is in soda and other sweetened  beverages, clients  told the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education Assistant  that they have cut down on sugary drinks and snacks that are high in saturated fats, sugar, and sodium and are eating more fruit and vegetables and drinking more water.  One client who is diabetic informed the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education Assistant that after he completed the program, his sugar levels went from over 1400 down to 120 with the help of eating a healthier diet and getting more exercise.