Wellness in Kentucky

Rachel Hance and Carrie Derossett

According to the Barren River District Health Department, Logan County ranks in the 95th percentile for childhood obesity. This data includes 23% of kindergarten age and 30% of 6th grade students that are reported as obese. To address these alarming statistics, the Logan County Extension Agents for Family and Consumer Sciences and 4-H Youth Development coordinated with the Assistant Principal and Family Resource Director at Auburn School to present the Wellness in Kentucky curriculum to the students in the Family and Consumer Science enrichment class. There were ten sessions presented covering the topics of fiber, fat facts, portion control, movement and physical activity, fruits and vegetables, sugars and bone health. Included in each session was an educational message using a variety of visual aides and games and activities so that students had a more hands on approach to learning. Approximately fifteen students participated in the program over the course of five months.

 Pre and post evaluations were given to each student during each session. The evaluations showed the following results: 

• Able to indicate that much of what we perceive as taste is actually smell 

  • Pre 1%             Post 73%

• Able to indicate food choices that are not good sources of calcium

  • Pre 27%            Post 73%

• Able to identify the recommended amount of physical activity you should get on most days of the week

  • Pre 73%            Post 100%

• Able to identify fruits and vegetables as the original fast foods

  • Pre 47%            Post 80%

• Able to identify that much of the fiber from fruits and vegetables is found in the skins

  • Pre 27%            Post 73%

• Able to indicated that too much fat in the diet can lead to increased risk for heart disease, excessive body fat and increased risk for certain types of cancer

  • Pre 40%            Post 67%

• Able to indicate why drinking soft drinks and other sweetened beverages is a health concern

  • Pre 47%            Post 67%

 Based on program evaluations, students were also able to determine good food sources for fiber and calcium, low fat snack options, and that smaller portion sizes are a healthier option. As part of our continuing efforts to reduce the obesity rates in Logan County, plans are to continue the Wellness in Kentucky program in our school systems.