Kentucky now has the fifth highest adult obesity rate in the nation, according to The State of Obesity: Better Policies for a Healthier America released September 2016. Kentucky’s current obesity rate is 34.6%. In Rockcastle County, KY that rate is above the state average at 39.4%.

The Nutrition Assistance Program Assistant in Rockcastle County, KY partnered with a local company to offer a Healthy Choices Class for employees. 11 employees enrolled in the Healthy Choices class. The curriculum aimed to help participants recognize dietary needs consistent with MyPlate. A lesson, “Know the Limits” teaching about fat, sugar, and oil consumption was taught.

Participants were able to compare fats and sugars on food labels and implement dietary changes. A post evaluation was completed at the end of the lesson series, reporting 63% positive diet change in solid fats and added sugars.