Thursday, March 25, 2010

Get Healthy!

Did you know that 44% of elementary students in Guilford County are overweight or obese? 29% of middle school, 30% of high school students and 60% of adults in Guilford County are also overweight or obese. Why does this matter? Obesity increases your health risks for diabetes, heart disease, stroke and certain cancers while certainly increasing health care costs. Being overweight can also cause increased stress on your joints and contribute to knee pain and arthritis and back pain.

What can you do about it? Walking 30 minutes a day at a brisk pace can significantly reduce your risk for developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, osteoporosis, reduces your resting heart rate and blood pressure and lower your overall bodyweight and your percent body fat. Walk to the store, walk to your friends house, park at the other end of the parking lot, start an exercise program with guidance from your physical therapist or other health care professional and visit Get Healthy Guilford for other facts and health tips.