Nutrition and Physical Activity
Eating nutritious foods along with regular physical activity can improve both physical and mental health. People can make better choices when healthy foods and places to exercise are easy to access. Healthy behaviors increase quality and length of life. Scroll to view data measures around nutrition and physical activity.
Nutrition Data
Nutrition relates to how one's body is nourished for health and growth. The foods people eat have a large influence on health and well-being. Those who eat healthier tend to live longer and are at a lower risk for many chronic conditions.
Physical Activity Data
Physical activity is commonly defined as all movement for leisure, transport, work, or recreation. Being active has numerous benefits that can help improve confidence, maintain healthy blood glucose and blood fat levels, manage body weight, and strengthen bones and muscles. A lack of physical activity can contribute to poor health outcomes. Regular exercise can reduce the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. It also reduces the risk of developing mental health problems like depression and anxiety.
Historical Spotlight on Health
In 2008, General Motors closed its doors for good and the economic consequences rippled throughout Rock County. According to Amy Goldstein's book, Janesville: An American Story, many individuals who lost a job, or lived with someone who did, took various steps to cope financially and that may have impacted their nutrition and health. Goldstein highlights some survey data below that the University of Wisconsin Survey Center conducted in 2013 to assess the economic impact of the General Motors closure in 2008.¹
83% cut back on transportation spending
63% cut back on doctor visits or medical treatment
50% had trouble paying for food
44% increased their credit card debt to help pay bills
30% missed a mortgage or rent payment
15% had their utilities cut off
The Rock County Food Environment Report published in 2023, showed that those who rent had a lower presence of food available in their household.² They were also less likely to report ease of purchasing fruits and vegetables. As income increases, so does the presence of food in the home. In 2022, the Nutrition Collaborative of Rock County was formed to improve access to food, provide comprehensive nutrition education, and connect food and nutrition resources throughout Rock County.
Goldstein, Amy. Janesville: An American Story, c2017. page 303
Food Environment Report: https://www.co.rock.wi.us/home/showpublisheddocument/57278/638174223970970000