Living Healthy in Washington County

Supporting and Inspiring Longer, Healthier Lives

Living Healthy in Washington County (LHWC) is part of the Statewide Health Improvement Program effort to address obesity and chronic disease. By working with communities, employers, schools and health care providers, the initiative strives to create and support policies and environments that make it easier for residents to incorporate healthy actions into their daily routines.

Living Healthy in Washington County is making a positive difference across the community through better nutrition, more physical activity, and reduced tobacco use and exposure.

Early Detection

Almost every American family is in some way adversely affected by disease:

cancer
heart disease
high blood pressure
diabetes
osteoporosis
arthritis

Chronic diseases are among the most prevalent, costly, and preventable of all health issues. Health screening and regular physical exams are an important part of preventive care, and early detection is the first step in treatment to save lives, reduce health care costs, and avoid disability or premature death.

Food and Nutrition

What we eat has an impact on our health, both in how we feel today and our health risks over a lifetime. Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring. There are many delicious and healthy foods to eat. Here are four easy nutrition tips to follow:

Avoid oversized portions.
Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables.
Choose whole grains at least half the time.
Drink water instead of sweetened beverages.

Additional Information

Physical Activity

Being physically activity is one of the most important ways to improve overall health and fitness, and prevent chronic disease. The main thing is to be active for 30 minutes a day, in ways that you enjoy and can sustain over a lifetime. Walking, biking, skiing – whatever you choose, get started, be flexible, and have fun.

Additional Information

Living Healthy in Washington County Active Living Information and Resources
Washington County Parks
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Physical Activity and Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Physical Activity Guidelines. Physical activity recommendations based on the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.
Let’s Move! Comprehensive national initiative dedicated to solving the challenge of childhood obesity within a generation.

Tobacco Cessation

Tobacco use is a true addiction, and the decision to quit is one that only you can make. Talk with your health care provider or check out the following resources. Some health plans also offer a variety of resources such as classes, support groups, quit lines, or individual counseling for members.

Resources for Quitting

American Lung Association
QuitPlan
Minnesota’s Tobacco Helpline: 1-800-QuitNow

Worksite Health Promotion

The LHWC team works with employers to provide consultations, resources, and networking services through the Washington County Worksite Health Partnership for worksite health programs. The Partnership meets on a quarterly basis and is free to any interested employer or worksite in the county.