Fueling the Future: How Healthy Eating and Active Living Connect Harris County Communities
March marks National Nutrition Month®, an annual campaign led by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to highlight the importance of healthy food choices and physical activity in promoting overall well-being. In Harris County, where chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease continue to rise, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is emphasizing the role of nutrition and active lifestyles in preventing serious health conditions.
This year’s theme, "Food Connects Us," highlights how nutrition plays a critical role in building stronger communities and fostering lifelong healthy habits. According to the 2024 Chronic Diseases in Harris County Report, deaths related to diabetes have increased by 29.8%, while heart disease fatalities have risen by 3.1%. These numbers reflect an urgent need to promote better nutrition, increased physical activity, and early disease prevention.
HCPH’s Commitment to Community Health
Through the Chronic Disease Prevention (CDP) Program, HCPH is dedicated to educating the community on ways to reduce obesity, improve dietary habits, and prevent chronic illnesses. In 2014, HCPH launched the Nutrition and Physical Activity (NPA) Program, which provides evidence-based education tailored to all age groups.
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Programs Offered by the NPA Initiative
HCPH offers free, customizable nutrition and wellness programs for Harris County residents, available both in-person and virtually. These programs include:
1. Eat Play Grow
Designed for children ages 2-5 and their parents, this program teaches fundamental nutrition and physical activity habits through creative, engaging lessons.
2. CATCH (Coordinated Approach to Child Health)
Aimed at elementary and middle school students, CATCH helps children recognize healthy food choices and encourages them to increase their daily physical activity levels.
3. Cooking Matters
Participants (ages 7 and up) engage in hands-on cooking demonstrations, learning how to plan and prepare healthy, budget-friendly meals.
4. Chronic Disease Prevention Classes
Designed to educate community members on preventing and managing diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
5. Senior Nutrition Classes
Focused on healthy aging, these sessions cover nutritional needs for seniors, meal planning, and dietary adjustmentsfor optimal well-being.
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Healthy Living Tips for National Nutrition Month
HCPH encourages Harris County residents to take small, sustainable steps toward better nutrition and active living. Here are a few expert-recommended habits:
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Plan Your Meals Ahead of Time – This helps ensure balanced meals while staying within a budget.
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Fill Half Your Plate with Fruits and Vegetables – Aim for two cups of fruit and two and a half cups of vegetables daily.
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Choose Balanced Meals – Incorporate grains, lean protein, and dairy along with fresh produce.
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Be Active – Adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week, while children and teens need at least 60 minutes per day.
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Understand Food Labels – Reading the Nutrition Facts label can help make informed food choices.
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Make Smart Snack Choices – Pair grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy, or protein for sustained energy.
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Drink More Water – Staying hydrated reduces the intake of sugary drinks.
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Reduce Added Sugars – Choose flavored water, unsweetened tea, or naturally sweet foods like fruit.
- Practice Mindful Eating – Avoid distractions and eat slowly to enjoy meals fully.
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Making a Lasting Impact on Community Health
Each NPA program is designed to fit community needs, with flexible daytime, evening, and weekend sessions. Programs can be scheduled for 1-4 sessions, with each session lasting about one hour. Additionally, bilingual educatorsare available to provide instruction in Spanish.
By equipping residents with knowledge and practical tools, Harris County Public Health aims to foster a healthier future for individuals and families. Visit HCPH's website at publichealth.harriscountytx.gov or call 713-274-5711 to schedule a class.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
