Building healthy habits for a healthier generation
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EmailTo prepare children and youth with these critical competencies, Michigan State University Extension’s 4-H Youth Development is teaching youth about food, nutrition, physical activity and personal safety.
Today’s high rates of obesity and chronic disease are wreaking havoc on families physically, mentally and financially. To reduce this stress and burden, and build a healthier generation for the future, people need the skills and knowledge that enable them to lead healthy lifestyles. Through help developing healthy habits and attitudes about food, nutrition and physical activity, youth will be better equipped with the tools and information necessary for healthy lifestyles in adulthood.
To prepare children and youth with these critical competencies, Michigan State University Extension’s 4-H Youth Development is teaching youth about food, nutrition, physical activity and personal safety. Through their various programs and activities, MSU Extension is helping to build a healthier future generation by empowering Michigan youth to make proactive and healthy choices, now and in the future. In 2017, this programming reached more than 1,000 participants. Of those surveyed:
- 84% knew how to make healthy food choices and 81% ate more fruits and vegetables.
- 82% percent thought being physically active was fun, and 69% said they exercised more than 60 minutes each day
- 85% drank more water, and 69% ate less junk food.
