The Institute of Medicine has released a report that is part of a series of publications that provide information and analysis to policy makers and others working to turn the obesity epidemic around.

The report explores prior obesity prevention strategies and focuses on five critical goals for preventing obesity: integrating physical activity into people's daily lives, making healthy food and beverage options available everywhere, transforming marketing and messages about nutrition and activity, making schools a gateway to healthy weights, and galvanizing employers and health care professionals to support healthy lifestyles.

The report includes references to incorporating more active transportation modes, such as walking and cycling, into daily activities.

The Institute of Medicine, like TRB, is a division of the National Academies, which include the National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, and National Research Council.