Iowa has seen concerning trends regarding the health of our citizens in the first half of the 2020’s. According to the United Health Foundation’s recently released America’s Health Rankings, our state ranks 16th out of 50. However, this ranking hides some alarming statistics about the well-being of Iowans. We need to act now. The future of Iowa’s health depends on it.

Volunteer Iowa announced the launch of the 11th annual Give Back Iowa Challenge, an eight-week challenge from April 1 - May 31, 2025, aimed at engaging Iowans in employer supported volunteering. Alliant Energy and the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative have returned this year as partners to support the challenge. Iowa employers are encouraged to pre-register by March 31st but can elect to participate at any time during the Challenge.

Every month through Monthly Momentum, we’ll share what our team did through our four main programs Make It OK, Double Up Food Bucks, Produce Rx, and 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! the month prior to realize that mission!

When it comes to heart health, many foods get an undeserved bad reputation. Many people hesitate to enjoy certain ingredients, fearing they might raise cholesterol or harm their cardiovascular health. From eggs to nuts, and even the suspected soy, let’s break down the fear and bring back the benefits.

Irving Elementary (Waterloo) Physical Education Teacher, Cory Arensdorf, is a 5-2-1-0 champion. He has an incredible passion for teaching children that began at a young age, and he has carried it through his time as an educator. Cory has won the Healthiest State Initiative’s K-12 School Award twice, been a finalist for the Individual category once, and his fresh approach to physical education is an inspiring way to teach kids about their body, and to build a stronger foundation for healthier choices in the future.

The report offers comprehensive insights into the organization’s community involvement, activities, and achievements throughout the year. Through statewide efforts, the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative has at least one of its programs or events operating in all of Iowa’s 99 counties.

The Iowa Healthiest State Initiative announced that its Double Up Food Bucks program has increased the daily match for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to $15, up from $10. The change takes effect immediately in all participating Double Up Food Bucks sites across Iowa.

The Healthiest State Initiative wants to recognize Iowa’s workplaces, schools, early care programs, health care providers, youth, and individuals for their efforts to support the physical, social, and mental well-being of Iowans through the 2025 Healthiest State Annual Awards presented by Wellabe. Applications are now open through 5:00 PM on January 29!

Every month through Monthly Momentum, we’ll share what our team did through our four main programs Make It OK, Double Up Food Bucks, Produce Rx, and 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! the month prior to realize that mission!

Shedding weight is tough, even with all the stars aligned—but add in a friends tips or internet advice, and it’s a whole new challenge. Lets debunk some of the most common weight loss myths and share tips to help you improve your well-being while fostering a healthy relationship with food.

Every month through Monthly Momentum, we’ll share what our team did through our four main programs Make It OK, Double Up Food Bucks, Produce Rx, and 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! the month prior to realize that mission!

Let’s dive into the basics of a gluten-free diet and five must-have gluten-free foods perfect for holiday entertaining.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64% of individuals with mental health conditions report that the holidays worsen their symptoms. Did you know the foods you eat can have a big impact on your mood? Alongside prescribed medications and therapies, nutrition is vital in supporting mental health.

Every month through Monthly Momentum, we’ll share what our team did through our four main programs Make It OK, Double Up Food Bucks, Produce Rx, and 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! the month prior to realize that mission!

The Iowa Healthiest State Initiative’s Double Up Food Bucks Program has been awarded $4,820,792 as part of the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP) grant, which aims to tackle food and nutrition insecurity in underserved communities, as well as support healthy diets by providing access to fruits and vegetables for eligible families.

The Healthiest State Initiative has announced the winners of the 2024 Healthiest State Annual Awards. The winners were recognized at ceremonies at the Workplace Wellbeing Conference in April and the 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! Summit in October for their efforts to improve the physical, social and emotional well-being of their students, employees and fellow Iowans.

Every month through Monthly Momentum, we’ll share what our team did through our four main programs Make It OK, Double Up Food Bucks, Produce Rx, and 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! the month prior to realize that mission!

It’s that time of year when tailgating is king, and cool breezes inspire us to hold on to summer. How about taking a tropical twist on your next tailgating event? Make mangos part of your outdoor menu for a sweet and delicious celebration of sporting events, turning every bite into a win!

The Iowa Healthiest State Initiative has announced leadership changes among its Board of Directors.

April Schmaltz, President and CEO of Delta Dental of Iowa, has been elected Board President. She will succeed Jeff Pomeranz, who has served as President since 2022. In addition, President of Hy-Vee Inc., Aaron Wiese, will remain in his role as Board Vice President. Becky Woody, President, HealthPartners UnityPoint Health, will serve as Board Treasurer.

Gov. Kim Reynolds has declared October as Healthiest State Month in Iowa in a proclamation signing. Iowans from all sectors are invited to celebrate with resources, fun activities, and giveaways from the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative and 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! – a nationally recognized and evidence-based prevention framework to promote healthy habits.