LaRue County Kentucky has an obesity rate of 34.7% resulting in a sedentary lifestyle rate of 28.9%.

              LaRue County Extension Service Expanded Food and Nutrition Program Assistant Conducted a series of 12 classes with 11 LaRue County High School Functionally Mentally Disabled Students with a goal of improving their eating habits and increasing their activity level.  Participants in this group have developmental or physical limitations.

 Classes on basic cooking skills, My plate, portion control, beverage choices and physical activity  were taught to encourage a healthier lifestyle.

One participant stated “ My doctor told me I needed to lose weight”.

 As a result  91% showed improvement in diet quality, 73% of the students drank sweetened drinks less frequently and 91% spent fewer hours watching T.V., playing electronic games or using a computer. 

After participating in  this series of classes the student commented “ I have now lost 20 pounds because I drink water instead of soda. I stopped eating cookies and sweets, now I eat more fruit I also try to exercise everyday by walking and playing outside”.