Toi N. Degree
Family & Consumer Education Agent
A new year has begun and for many that means making New Yearís resolutions, resolutions such as reducing stress, eating healthy, being physically active and aiming for a healthy weight.
This may be a resolution that you have made time and time again, but have not been able to quite accomplish. So you are trying it once again and as the old adage goes, ěif at first you donít succeed try, try again!î
Well, luckily there is a program to get you back on track, so that you will be able to shed those unwanted pounds and lead a healthier life. Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less is the program you seek. Eat Smart, Move More ,Weigh Less (ESMMWL) is a weight loss/ weight management program developed by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension and the North Carolina Division of Public Health.
Eat Smart, Move More; Weigh Less, is a 15-week program using strategies proven to work. Each lesson informs, empowers and motivates participants to live mindfully as they make healthier choices about eating and physical activity.
The program provides opportunities for participants to track their progress and keep a journal of healthy eating and physical activity behaviors. Studies that have been conducted show time and time again that being at a healthy weight can help lower your risk for developing chronic diseases and conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and certain cancers. It also can help you feel good about yourself and give you more energy to enjoy life.
Most people who try to lose weight focus only on one thing ó weight loss. However, if you set goals, eat healthy foods, are physically active and get plenty of sleep, then you may be more successful at losing weight.
So if you are ready to trade those resolutions in for goals, Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less is the program for you and can show you how to set goals that are attainable, choose healthier foods, incorporate physical activity into your day and stay focused as you reach your goal.
A new program will begin here in Rowan County starting on Jan. 25 and running through May 3, 6-7 p.m., at the Rowan County Agriculture Center, 2727 Old Concord Road. For more information at the program and to sign up, contact Toi N. Degree, Family & Consumer Education Agent, at 704-216-8970 or by e-mail at toi_degree@ncsu.edu. Pre- register by Jan. 20.