While Vermont usually ranks better than other states, obesity and overweight rates have gone up over the past several years. People who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and some cancers.
There are many reasons people become overweight or obese – but these conditions are best prevented by:
- Eating healthy foods. People of all ages should eat at least five fruits and vegetables a day, limiting fat, sugar and salt.
- Being physically active. Adults should have at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity such as brisk walking every day. Youth should have at least 60 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity every day.
To see how we're doing in Vermont: Physical Activity, Nutrition & Weight Performance Scorecard