Here’s a bit of encouraging news, at least if you happen to live in Minnesota. According to the CDC, Minnesota is alone in the upper midwest in keeping obesity in check. Here’s the chart, via MN Dept of Health:
Why are we bucking the trend?
In 2013, approximately 18,600 Minnesotans covered by state health care programs moved from overweight to a healthy weight. There is an estimated annual savings of as much as $9 million to state taxpayers due to this change to healthy weight alone.
“Obesity is a complex condition with many contributing factors. We know diet and exercise are key, and I am confident that Minnesota’s success is closely tied to investments by the Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) and its community and private sector partners to increase Minnesotans opportunities for healthy eating and physical activity,” said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Ed Ehlinger.
Walking begins at home, folks.