Live longer. Stay stronger. Be healthy Westchester.
Helping Westchester County residents choose a healthier lifestyle is an important goal of Westchester County.
Now, through a partnership between the Westchester County Department of Health and the 16 hospitals in Westchester, we are working together to promote and improve the health of all Westchester residents through the New York State Prevention Agenda.
The two Prevention Agenda goals that we will tackle together are chronic diseases and physical activity/nutrition. We plan to come up with creative ways to encourage residents to reduce their sodium consumption, exercise more and eat healthier. Together, the Westchester County Department of Health and the hospitals will develop and promote programs and offer information to residents to help achieve these objectives. Check back here throughout the coming months for information on new programs and activities to help you stay on track with your own nutritional and fitness goals.
Helping residents live healthier is why the Westchester County Board of Health banned oils containing trans-fats from being used in eating establishments in Westchester back in 2008.
Helping residents live healthier is why the Westchester County Board of Legislators passed a Calorie Labeling Law in May, 2009, that requires chain restaurants to post calorie counts on their menus and menu boards.
Helping residents live healthier is also why, throughout the year, the Westchester County Department of Health partners with community organizations to promote good nutrition and exercise and offer health screenings at community events. In this way, we help residents determine whether they have or are at risk for chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease so residents can learn how to reduce their risks and get any needed help.
The Westchester County Department of Health also encourages families to participate in No Junk Food for a Week. We ask students to sign a pledge promising to eat healthy snacks instead of junk food for one week. And there’s no reason parents can’t join in, too. To avoid the urge to snack, get off the couch and get moving, do a craft project or keep your jaw busy chewing on carrot or celery sticks. Sample pledge forms and other materials are available.
To see how Westchester's campaign fits in with the statewide initiative for a Healthy New York, visit the NY State Prevention Agenda.
View how the health of Westchester residents ranks against Prevention Agenda goals.