DPHSS has announced that effective Aug. 31, it will provide only healthy choices in its vending machines. There has been a major policy effort requiring all vending machines in government properties to provide only healthy snacks, according to a press release.
“I have determined that our department will serve as a role model for our government by implementing this policy,” said DPHSS Director James Gillan.
DPHSS program coordinator Bertha Taijeron said to her knowledge, the public health department will be the first to implement the “healthy choices” policy within the government of Guam.
The department stated it recognizes the impact that increasing rates of obesity and being overweight are having on chronic diseases, quality of life and healthcare costs.
According to DPHSS, consumption of just 100 extra calories a day from foods such as sodas and snacks can cause a weight-gain of 10 lbs. each year.
Individual weight loss of 5 to 10 lbs. can delay or prevent the onset of type-2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, hypertension and other chronic diseases, as well as related healthcare costs.
Beginning Aug. 31, all beverage vending machines on all DPHSS properties will provide 100 percent healthy drink options such as water and fruit juices. Carbonated sodas will not be available.
