Nutrition and Physical Activity
The National Nutrition and Physical Activity Program (NAPA) promotes healthier lifestyles across the U.S. by advancing public health strategies that support nutritious eating, regular physical activity, and healthy weight management. It is led by the CDC’s Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity (DNPAO), is aimed at improving the health of Americans through evidence-based interventions and community partnerships. The program addresses poor nutrition, sedentary behavior, and obesity—major risk factors for chronic diseases including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. By investing in policies, educational resources, and local initiatives, the program empowers individuals and communities to make healthier choices and fosters environments that support active living and balanced diets.March: National Nutrition Month
May: National Physical Fitness & Sports Month
Podcast Episodes
Episode #45 and #46 of the Talking Health in the 406 Podcast discuss Healthy living related topics like nutrition for the family and healthy babies
Local Programming and Resources
Includes a 12-month course with weekly and monthly sessions, food and activity tracking, and gym membership support.
Model Nutrition Policies for workplaces
Montana NAPA Program Information: Montana Nutrition and Physical Activity Program
Offers a variety of nutrition education resources, including:
Montana Cook Fresh Initiative: Includes 10 lesson plans and 30 scratch-cooked USDA-compliant recipes for schools to use in nutrition education
Montana Cook Fresh Initiative: Includes 10 lesson plans and 30 scratch-cooked USDA-compliant recipes for schools to use in nutrition education
Nutrition Education Resources from DPHHS - GoogleDocs
Physical Activity Resources
DECIDE
The goal of DECIDE is to help people—ranging in age from 18 to 90 years old—learn how to change their behavior so they can better manage their chronic conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and chronic kidney disease. DECIDE combines brief education with problem-solving training to help people apply self-management to the context of their everyday challenges and barriers.
This coalition works with Lewis and Clark Public Health to promote nutrition and physical activity through built environment improvements and public engagement. One of their projects includes an Active Living Wayfinding System to encourage walking and biking in Helena parks and trails
Model Physical Activity Policy for workplaces
Provides resources and equipment for outdoor recreation tailored to individuals with disabilities. Services include a recreational equipment library, demonstration events, and volunteer support. Activities range from wildlife viewing to adaptive hunting and fishing
MSU Extension offices throughout the state offer various physical activity programs. One highlight is the Montana Arthritis Exercise Program, a 12-week class designed for older adults to improve strength and mobility.
Children and Youth
DECIDE : The goal of DECIDE is to help people—ranging in age from 18 to 90 years old—learn how to change their behavior so they can better manage their chronic conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and chronic kidney disease. DECIDE combines brief education with problem-solving training to help people apply self-management to the context of their everyday challenges and barriers.
MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition...Do It!) programs: The MEND programs combine physical activity, healthy eating, and behavior change to facilitate safe, effective weight management and lasting changes in lifestyle. Programs run for 10 weeks and the child and at least one parent or primary caregiver must attend.
Offers a variety of nutrition education resources, including:
Montana Cook Fresh Initiative: Includes 10 lesson plans and 30 scratch-cooked USDA-compliant recipes for schools to use in nutrition education
Montana Cook Fresh Initiative: Includes 10 lesson plans and 30 scratch-cooked USDA-compliant recipes for schools to use in nutrition education
Reports and Data
Montana DPHHS StorymapsHealthy Living
Infant Nutrition
