More than 66 percent of American adults over the age of 20 are overweight or obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many of these people will develop various diseases, including heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, breathing problems and various cancers, due to their weight. Maintaining a healthy weight is extremely important to good overall health and preventing diseases as well as improving longevity and quality of life.

Good nutrition and exercise are important parts of a healthy lifestyle. Exercise can help you keep your weight under control by burning excess calories that would be stored as fat in your body.  Every food contains calories, and every activity you perform burns them. Adding any activity above and beyond what you would normally do will burn extra calories. 

Think carefully about the food and activity choices you make for you and your family.  Make sure you choose plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and add in physical activities to keep your body strong and healthy. 

Many people begin a diet in hopes of fitting into their old jeans. Other people are forced to change their diet and exercise regimens due to illness. Others are simply trying to maintain their current weights and live a healthier lifestyle. Whichever reasons you may have for changing the way you eat and exercise, the following pages can help you discover a healthier you.