The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Foundation for Digestive Health and Nutrition (FDHN) is pleased to announce that the General Mills Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition has become the first AGA Foundation Digestive Health Partner. This program recognizes companies that support digestive health research through the AGA Foundation.

"We are pleased that the General Mills Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition has become the AGA Foundation's first partner in the Digestive Health Partner Program," said Nicholas F. LaRusso, MD, AGAF, chair of the AGA Foundation. "The Bell Institute is dedicated to advancing the research and knowledge needed to better manage digestive health and nutrition, which will lead to a greater understanding of gastrointestinal diseases. We hope they will soon be joined by other like-minded corporations."

Central to the AGA's efforts is the continued funding of critical research in digestive health to ensure that patients receive the most advanced care and treatments possible. Among its initiatives, the AGA has created the Digestive Health Partner Program to recognize companies that are committed to advancing research and public education into the causes, diagnosis, treatment and cure of digestive illnesses.

"The Bell Institute is proud to be the first corporation to partner with the AGA Foundation's Digestive Health Partner Program. Together, we will advance the science that can improve and promote good digestive health," said Susan Crockett, PhD, RD, vice president, senior technology officer, the General Mills Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition.

Companies interested in learning more about the AGA Foundation Digestive Health Partner Program should contact Jennifer Chisholm, 301-222-4007 or [email protected].

About FDHN

The Foundation for Digestive Health and Nutrition (FDHN) is the foundation of the American Gastroenterological Association. The Foundation's mission is to provide funds for research and public education in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure of digestive diseases. Each year, FDHN gives over $1.2 million in digestive health research grants to young investigators through contributions from AGA members, patients and family members of those who suffer from digestive diseases, national foundations, and corporations with an interest in digestive health. For more information on the awards program or to make a donation, visit http://www.fdhn.org/.

About the AGA Institute

The American Gastroenterological Association is the trusted voice of the GI community. Founded in 1897, the AGA has grown to include 17,000 members from around the globe who are involved in all aspects of the science, practice and advancement of gastroenterology. The AGA Institute administers the practice, research and educational programs of the organization. http://www.gastro.org/.

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About General Mills

One of the world's leading food companies, General Mills operates in more than 100 countries and markets more than 100 consumer brands, including Cheerios, Nature Valley, Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, Green Giant, Old El Paso, Progresso, Cascadian Farm, Muir Glen, Fiber One and more. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, General Mills had fiscal 2009 global net sales of US$15.9 billion, including the company's $1.2 billion proportionate share of joint venture net sales. The General Mills Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition supports the work of health professionals by sponsoring educational efforts and developing continuing education programs and patient education materials to advance the understanding of nutrition science. http://www.bellinstitute.com/