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Parents:
Childhood obesity is becoming a growing problem, both in our nation and Idaho. A recent study found that nearly one-third of Idaho third graders are overweight or at risk of becoming overweight. These facts are alarming, so it is more important than ever for you to get your children eating healthy and physically active.
To help, you can receive a free '2009 Healthy Habits, Healthy Families' calendar by calling the Idaho CareLine at 2-1-1. The calendar offers tips for helping your family become active, along with recipes for healthy meal options.
To read the recent study of Idaho third graders, please click here.
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State of Idaho Physical Activity and Nutrition Program
In 2004, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Division of Health, Bureau of Community and Environmental Health established the Idaho Physical Activity and Nutrition Program (IPAN). The program’s mission is to promote a culture of health and vigor by encouraging and enabling Idahoans to be physically active and make good food choices, across the lifespan. The program is funded with general funds.
According to the 2006 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS), 60% of adult Idahoans are overweight or obese. Data from the 2005 BRFSS show 46% of adult Idahoans are not active enough and 77% do not eat the recommended minimum of five servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Idaho youth exhibit similar trends toward inactivity, poor eating habits, and overweight.
The IPAN Program's overarching message of "Do It for Life!" includes four core messages.
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“Small Steps=Big “Enjoy Nutrient-Rich “30/60 Every Day” “Energy In/Energy Out”
Changes” encourages Foods” encourages reminds us that adults describes the concept
Idahoans to make small, consumption of fruits need 30 minutes and of energy balance, the
sustained changes in and vegetables, low-fat children need 60 minutes key to weight control.
activity and eating dairy products, lean of moderate to vigorous
habits for improved meats, fish and eggs, activity each day.
health. whole grains, beans and
nuts for better health.
SUPPORTING PROGRAMS
In 2006, Idaho’s state fall prevention and arthritis programs were placed under the IPAN Program, because interventions are primarily physical activity-based.
Using Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant funding, the program contracts with the seven local health districts to implement a fall prevention exercise program (Fit and Fall Proof) in communities throughout the state. The focus is on functional fitness to help the older adult (65+) maintain an independent, freely functioning lifestyle. Classes are free or low-cost, taught by lay leaders who are trained by certified master trainers, and are offered at sites such as senior centers and other places where seniors gather. A current challenge is how to maintain and expand this popular, effective program in the face of potential loss of federal funding.
RESOURCES
Healthy Habits – Healthy Families - Contact the Idaho CareLine at 2-1-1 for a free calendar!
Resources on the Web
Healthy Weight / Weight Loss / Physical Activity
Nutrition
Resources
Recipes
Healthy Communities and Familes
EVENTS
Health Districts