As we age, we may not be as active as we used to be. Maybe we have put on a few extra pounds, or we’ve developed health issues such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

North Dakota State University Extension has developed Nourish, a program to provide North Dakotan adults, especially those age 50 and older in rural counties, with information and strategies about nutrition. Participants in the series will learn how to eat more nutritiously and be more physically active so they can reduce their risk of developing chronic diseases.

Extension agents will hold weekly classes in many rural North Dakota counties. Participants also may take part in self-paced online modules beginning Oct. 16 or according to the county-based schedule. Participants are asked to sign up for the series of seven weekly classes. Prizes and certificates will be provided for those who complete at least six of the seven classes or online modules.

Each class will focus on one topic, such as how to maintain eye health. Other topics include how to keep the heart, brain, digestive system, skin, bones and joints healthy – and strategies for getting more sleep.

Visit https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/nourish for more information and the locations of Nourish classes. Participants who are unable to attend a class or want more information on the topic covered in a session will be able to enroll in both the web-based and face-to-face classes.

Classes will include hands-on activities and time for discussion. Participants will receive material such as handouts and healthful recipes to take home.

Anyone can sign up for the free monthly newsletter by visiting the website or contacting your local Extension office. Participating county Extension offices also will have Facebook pages to interact with their clients.

“Our goal is to provide nutrition and overall wellness education and online support to help adults sustain a healthy lifestyle,” says Julie Garden-Robinson, Extension food and nutrition specialist.

“Good health is important for enjoying a high quality of life and for maintaining independence in later life,” says NDSU professor and project co-director Sherri Stastny. “This program offers the tools to help us enhance our overall wellbeing.”

The project is supported by a Rural Health and Safety Education program grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – Sept. 26, 2023

Source: Julie Garden-Robinson, 701-231-7187, julie.gardenrobinson@ndsu.edu

Editor: Elizabeth Cronin, 701-231-7881, elizabeth.cronin@ndsu.edu