Oral health professionals and advocates understand that lifting up good nutrition along with good oral health makes sense. That’s why Kentucky Oral Health Coalition invites you to join us in building awareness about the importance of good nutrition as well as advocating for good nutrition access in Kentucky during National Nutrition Month.  

Ways to Take Action for Nutrition Month! 

  • One in 6 Kentucky kids experience hunger. Proposed federal budget cuts to the SNAP program could further limit their access to nutritious foods. Learn more about how federal changes could impact food access in Kentucky.  
  • A recent surveillance study of early learners across the state found that children across varied socioeconomic backgrounds in Kentucky showed an alarming rate of “dental poverty.” Sharing educational resources is one recommended strategy to improve outcomes. The drink pyramid, created by Dr. Nikki Stone, a dentist in Eastern Kentucky, encourages healthy choices for children’s beverages:
  •  Water, at the bottom of the pyramid, helps to rinse away food particles and bacteria and is recommended to have throughout the day.  
  • Milk can help to build strong bones and teeth but should be consumed in moderation.  
  • Juices contain important nutrients but are typically high in sugar and should be limited.  
  • Pop and other sugary drinks provide little to no nutritional value and are usually much higher in sugar and calories, so they are at the top of the pyramid to show that they should only be consumed on special occasions 

Visit the KOHC Resource Hub for other educational resources that lift up the importance of nutrition for oral health, including the WIC postcard.  

Thank you for taking action to improve nutrition education and access during National Nutrition Month!