The role of a healthy diet in tackling the problem of childhood obesity is just one of the issues being discussed at the Charles Sturt University (CSU) Nutrition Clinic, ahead of National Nutrition Week beginning on Sunday 16 October. The 2007-2008 National Health Survey conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, found almost a quarter of Australian children aged 5 to 17 were overweight or obese. Accredited Practising Dietitian and Clinical Educator with the School of Dentistry and Health Sciences, Mr Shane Delves said a healthy diet is a key factor in addressing the issue and parents are important role models. “Eating a balanced diet containing fruit and vegetables, lean meats, whole-grains and good sources of dairy, along with good amounts of physical activity and minimising sedentary behaviours, are vital to the health of young Australians,” he said. The CSU Nutrition Clinic provides free, one-on-one advice about healthy eating and general wellbeing. It allows Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition and Dietetics) students at CSU to gain valuable experience in dietary consulting, under the supervision of an Accredited Practicing Dietitian.