GOV. REYNOLDS PROCLAIMS OCTOBER AS HEALTHIEST STATE MONTH

Press Room

Mar 21

By Chase Langos on Tuesday, October 4, 2022

Gov. Kim Reynolds has declared October as Healthiest State Month in a proclamation signing. Iowans from all sectors will celebrate 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! – a nationally recognized and evidence-based prevention framework to promote healthy habits.

“Shining a spotlight on the importance of healthy eating, physical activity, and reducing screen time is important for the health of Iowans young and old.” Said Jami Haberl, Executive Director of the Healthiest State Initiative. “Healthiest State Month is a celebration of healthy habits, and proof that you can have fun with them as well.”

The goal of 5-2-1-0 is to increase physical activity and healthy eating through policy and environmental change. Each week in October will focus on healthy habits promoted by 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! The month of celebration will be capped off by the 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! Summit on October 26th with experts from across the state gathering in Ankeny to discuss best practices for implementing the changes into schools, early care, out of school programs, healthcare clinics, workplaces, and communities.

October 3-7: 1 or more hour of physical activity
- October 5 – Healthiest State 12th Annual Walk
October 10-14: 5 or more fruits or vegetables
October 17-21: 2 hours or less of recreational screen time
October 24-28: 0 sugary drinks – drink more water!
October 26: 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! Summit

Celebrating Healthiest State Month is easy and fun! Free celebration toolkits and resources are available for education sites, communities, workplaces, health care clinics and households. The celebration toolkits contain weekly activity ideas, communication templates and sample social media posts. Additional free resources are available including social media graphics, posters, and activity sheets for your site.

The Healthiest State Initiative will also be celebrating Healthiest State Month with weekly 5-2-1-0 themed giveaways and videos on their Facebook and Instagram pages. Iowans are encouraged to share their Healthiest State Month celebrations on social media using #HealthyChoicesCount. Join us in making healthy choices count in October!