Why It Matters

Children with Obesity are more likely to have numerous health conditions. These include high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Children with obesity are also more likely to have obesity as an adult. Adults with obesity have a higher risk of developing many diseases. These include heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer. Obesity costs in the US healthcare system almost $173 billion a year.

Obesity also affects the nation’s military readiness. Only 2 in 5 young adults are weight-eligible and physically prepared for basic training. A healthy diet and regular physical activity help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Factors that influence obesity

1. Fewer than 1 in 10 children and adults eat the recommended daily amount of fruits and vegetables.
2. Fewer than 1 in 4 youth get enough aerobic physical activity.
3. Just 1 in 4 adults fully meet physical activity guidelines.

The presence of a knowledgeable instructor teaching nutrition classes in the classroom significantly improves children's health outcomes. Through these classes, children gain a better understanding of healthy eating habits, which leads to improved dietary choices, better physical health, and an overall increase in well-being. The direct instruction on nutrition empowers children to make informed decisions about their diet, fostering long-term healthy behaviors.  

I am happy to report that through  SNAP-Ed youth curriculum  

1. 95% (35 of 37) of the children improved their ability to choose foods according to the Federal Dietary Recommendations or gained knowledge.
2. 92% (34 of 37) of the children improved their physical activity practices or gained knowledge.
3. 61% (14 0f 23) of the children improved their ability to prepare a simple, nutritious, affordable food or gained knowledge.

I feel like this is a great start to where we need to be, and with boots on the ground in every county in Kentucky we are moving in the right direction.