TEXT B How do we get more young
people to increase their consumption of iron-rich foods Many nutritionists are
advocating the fortification of a number of foods. This may help, but I contend
that we should also intensify our efforts in nutrition education among our young
people. I simply do not buy the argument that it is futile to try to change
eating habits. Once an intelligent person—and this includes
adolescents—understands the need for a healthy diet, I think he or she will act
accordingly. As for specific actions, I suggest that blood hemoglobin should be
checked as a routine part of a youngster’s yearly physical checkup. It should
contain at least 11 grams per 100 milliliters of blood for a girl and at least
12 grams for a boy. If it is any lower, the physician probably will prescribe an
easily absorbed iron supplement. Adolescents—and everyone
else—should cut out highly processed foods and drinks, which may be low in iron
and other nutrients. Read the labels for iron content. Especially make sure that
all bakery products are made with enriched flour or whole grains. Try adding
liver, chicken, beef, veal or any other variety to the weekly menu.
Finally, even when you are trying to lose weight, always eat a sensible,
well-balanced diet made up of a variety of fresh or very lightly processed
foods. In this way, you stand a good chance of getting not only enough iron, but
also adequate amounts of all the other essential nutrients. When the author says that we should intensify our efforts in nutrition education among our young people, he means that we ______.
A.should force young people to eat well-balanced meals B.should tell young people to eat liver, chicken, beef or veal C.should teach adolescents about nutrition in home economics class D.should try to change eating habits to get enough iron and other essential nutrients