Physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. In combination with healthy eating, it can help prevent a range of chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and stroke, which are the three leading causes of death. Physical activity helps control weight, builds lean muscle, reduces fat, promotes strong bone, muscle and joint development, and decreases the risk of obesity. Children need 60 minutes of play with moderate to vigorous activity every day to grow up to a healthy weight. Click here for "Let's Move" website.

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Centennial students participating in a student wellness effort have received a grant to promote physical fitness and healthy eating. Click here: bethecatalyst.org

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Learn about healthy eating from the American Dietetic Association and steps to take now to improve your total diet.  Read about the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010, from the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Get information on the top five reasons to prepare meals at home, according to the NIH Division of Nutrition Research Coordination.

Great Nutrition Resources!
For additional information on nutrition you can visit the following websites:

• Nutrition.gov
• Dietary Guidelines for Americans 
• My Plate
  

On Monday, December 13, 2010, President Barack Obama signed S. 3307, the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act into law. This law requires the U.S. Department of Agriculture to establish national nutrition standards for all foods sold and served in schools at any time during the school day.