The diet revolution has a new front. The U.S. military -- revising its nutrition standards for the first time in two decades -- will soon serve more fruit and less fat.
Pentagon officials announced the program Thursday during a visit by first lady Michelle Obama to the Little Rock Air Force Base in Arkansas. The military has launched a pilot program there to improve the nutrition of its food.
Obama's visit is part of a three-day tour marking the second anniversary of her "Let's Move" program to improve children's health through diet and exercise.
The Pentagon considers obesity a national security issue, Dr. Jonathan Woodson, assistant secretary of Defense for health affairs, said earlier this week. "About a quarter of entry-level candidates are too overweight to actually either enter the military or sustain themselves through the first enlistment."
The Defense Department spends an estimated $1.1 billion a year on obesity-related medical care. The new campaign will increase the offerings of fruit, vegetables and whole grains, while cutting back on fats. Military dependents can expect healthier choices in base schools and snack bars.
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