Making Better Lifestyle Choices

According to the 2019 data from the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps website, the adult obesity rate in Pulaski County is 37%.  High obesity rates have been linked to many health problems, including heart disease and stroke. 

In order to address this, a seven-session curriculum, Healthy Choices for Every Body program was conducted by the Pulaski County Cooperative Extension Service SNAP-Ed (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education) assistant. 

The Nutrition Education Program assistant taught bi-weekly group lessons at various locations including the housing authority, recovery center and virtually. The program provided information on food preparation, food resource management, food safety, portion control, and physical activity. 

Twenty-six women, ages ranging from 24 to 79, participated in 7 or more lessons and completed the program.   At the end of the program, a written evaluation showed that over three-fourths (81%) of the participants consumed more fruit and ate red and orange vegetables more often, over half (69%) ate dark green vegetables more often, one half (50%) drink regular soda less often, and 73% increased their consumption of dairy.  One participant shared, “I learned how to incorporate the food groups into my everyday life, and I plan on cooking more nutritious meals for myself and my family”.