USDA’s Database has been Updated with Nutrition Information

USDA’s database has been updated with nutrition information on more than 7,500 food items.  This is a great resource for WNEP educators and consumers on the nutritional content of food.   The 2009 updates include vitamin D values for fish, and for foods fortified with vitamin D such as milk, orange juice, cereals, margarine and yogurt.  Vitamin D works with calcium and other nutrients to strengthen bones and teeth.  Sunlight provides vitamin D but exposure is limited in Wisconsin. Vitamin D may also be obtained from supplements, but speak to your doctor before taking any supplements.  The current recommendation for adults over 50 years of age is 400 International Units (IU’s).  The Institute of Medicine is currently reviewing the recommendations to determine if 400 IU’s is enough.   More information on the content of vitamin D and  other nutrients in foods , go to the USDA database — http://www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/foodcomp/search/