Welcome to Kentucky Family Policy

This blog is dedicated to examining issues facing the Commonwealth of Kentucky and providing a nonpartisan, family perspective on public policy making. We hope to provide a forum for Kentuckians to review and discuss current legislative actions and the issues such actions are attempting to address. The opinions expressed herein belong solely to the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the University of Kentucky, its affiliates, or its representatives.

What the authors of this blog will contribute:
1) Summarize current state, national, and international research related to topics relevant to current legilative actions.
2) Describe Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service programs and activities currently addressing issues related to legilative actions in the various counties.
3) Provide expert commentaries via podcasts and videocasts on issues relevant to current legilative actions.

Please see "Priority Bills" section on the right for a short list of the most current legislative actions relevant to the family focus of this blog

Monday, March 12, 2012

Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices

According to Kentucky Institute of Medicine's 2007 "The Health of Kentucky: A County Assessment," 29% of Clinton County adults lack physical activity; 16% are obese; and 13% have diabetes. In response, Clinton County Extension Service and Health Coalition sponsored "Big Blue Shape-Up," which teaches nutrition and exercise. A weekly weigh-in was followed by lessons on label reading, portion control, menu planning and wise spending. After the program participants reported saving an average of $21 per week on groceries. 53% reported planning and preparing more meals at home. Evaluation comments included: "I am more aware of weight and healthy eating," "My son will always remember the diabetes-sugar talk," and "I like having accountability." 62 participants lost a total of 259.1 pounds.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county Profile for Clinton county, please click the link.

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