Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Sixty-six percent of Whitley County residents are overweight and in danger of chronic diseases related to obesity, such as diabetes. Whitley County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent addressed the issues of physical inactivity and weight loss through a weekly series of weight management classes using "Weight: the Reality Series" curriculum. Forty-eight participants improved their knowledge of nutrition and increased their physical activity levels. 30 participants reported walking 30-60 minutes 3 to 5 times every week. Twenty-one participants reported serving more low-starch vegetables. 40 participants reported drinking 64 to 100 ounces of water every day. 48 participants reported a group weight loss of 1,641 pounds, with 36 participants losing 10% or more of their starting weight.

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