Public Service Snap

An important part of losing weight and staying healthy is increasing physical

activity. By adding weight-resistant training to a fitness program, women can enjoy

health benefits in addition to losing weight. The University of Arkansas Division

of Agriculture conducts StrongWomen to help midlife-to-older women increase

strength, bone density, balance and energy. During the past year, more than 40,840

participant contacts were made through the StrongWomen program. Participants

were surveyed upon completion of the program and 65 percent reported an

increase in upper and lower body strength, 60 percent improved balance and

58 percent increased their aerobic endurance. This all goes a long way to combating

the state’s obesity problem.

Students’ nutrition lessons make a difference at home

SNAP-Ed (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education) provides

educational programs to improve the likelihood SNAP participants make

healthy choices within a limited budget and choose an active lifestyle. One

way participants are reached is through schools where 50 percent or greater

of the students receive free or reduced-price lunch.

Division of Agriculture family and consumer sciences extension agents engage

school children in educational activities to serve as change agents within their

families. At the end of the 2009-2010 school year, 1,600 parents completed

surveys regarding SNAP-Ed. Survey results indicated 80 percent of parents

reported their child spoke to them about healthy food; 75 percent said their

child asked for more fruits, vegetables, milk or yogurt; and 66 percent said

their child talked about being more physically active. The survey results also

indicated that 74 percent of the families were, indeed, making healthy

changes, including incorporating more vegetables, fruits and water into

their diets, were more physically active and eating less fast food use of medications. A Howard County couple who participated

in Be MedWise spent...