According to the CDC, Kentucky ranks 7^th in the US in heart disease, 4^th for diabetes and 1^st for cancer death rates. These extremely frightening statistics are due much in part to an extreme lack of physical activity (28% of Kentuckians report no physical activity whatsoever) and a high obesity rate (34% of Kentuckians are reported as being obese). While certain environmental factors and/or hereditary issues cannot simply be corrected overnight, eating and exercise habits can. These issues presented an interesting challenge for the Lewis County SNAP-Ed Assistant.  The overall goal was to change as many unhealthy behaviors with a group of individuals who were interested in making a change for the better. Lessons were held at the Extension Office.

Upon entry, the participants were eager to learn how to improve their overall health and feeling of wellness. Seven participants enrolled. The SNAP-Ed assistant taught lessons from the Healthy Choices for Every Body curriculum. At the end of the series of lessons, significant behavior changes resulted. Participants showed a 33% increase in fruit consumption by the end of the series with many reporting a substitution of fruit for their typical desserts. Extremely rewarding was a 100% increase in consumption of red and orange vegetables in the participant’s diet that coupled with a 33% decrease in soda consumption. One participant stated that she had the goal of losing enough weight by summer to fit comfortably in all the rides at a major amusement park. Midway through the program, she reported a weight loss of 10lbs due to strictly following the suggestions, such as cutting out sugary drinks and using Plate it Up KY Proud Recipes she gathered at the Extension Office. Upon graduation, she stated “I’ve lost 25lbs through this class and have decided I am going to push myself to lose another 25 and enlist in the military.” Her life changing journey has just began, and proves that by simply making some small changes in your diet and physical activity , a person can have a lifetime of reward.