Healthy Weight, Healthy Hearts
By IDFA – February 03, 2012
A Gallup poll released in January reported that the percentage of obese Americans has decreased slightly for the first time in three years (down to 26.1 percent from 26.6 percent). This is a good step in the long-term effort toward reducing obesity, an effort we are a part of with our friends at the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation (HWCF). HWCF is made up of organizations with a shared desire to educate the public on the concept of “energy balance” – that a healthy weight is a result of balancing “calories in” (what we eat) with “calories out” (what we burn through exercise).
There are many reasons people struggle with weight, and all kinds of ways those issues get complicated. But by simplifying it down to this balance, hopefully we can encourage our friends, families and communities to make changes.
IDFA is an associate member of HWCF in order to encourage the employees and customers of our member companies to live active, healthy lifestyles.
February brings Valentine’s Day and Heart Health Month, so it’s a perfect opportunity to plan nutritious meals and activities with your loved ones to encourage “energy balance” in everyday life. Themed meals can be a fun way to introduce new and nutritious options into your family’s menu.
Explore all the great winter activities available right outside the door. Throw a neighborhood snowball fight, go sledding or build a snowman. On the days you are stuck inside, take advantage of online resources. Paul Pierce of the Boston Celtics (and fellow HWCF associate member) has great videos that demonstrate exercises you can do right at home!
HWCF has developed an online community dedicated to helping families keep track of their energy balance. The Together Counts ™ campaign was created to provide encouragement, accountability and new ideas for families looking to build active, healthy lifestyles. Go to www.togethercounts.com and join today!
Nutrition Notes Blog offers insight, news and analysis on nutrition, as well as food labeling. The blog is written by Michelle Albee Matto, who worked in IDFA's regulatory department for the past eight years, most recently as assistant director for nutrition and labeling.
Thank you IDFA, You are right it is a good thing to have a Healthy Weight, Healthy Heart. We Must plan nutritious meals and activities with our love once, It will greatly help in burning excess calories.
I guess I have to eat less. I am gaining weight in recent days and feeling unhealthy.