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The Trust for America's Health 2010 "F as in Fat" report was released in July, 2010. It ranks NC as the 10th most obese state in the US. Our rates for adult obesity are approximately 29.4%, and for childhood obesity, 18.6%. In 2009, NC was ranked 5th in the nation in childhood obesity. Currently, we are ranked 11th. Although this indicates significant improvement, the rates remain unacceptable, however, and put our children at risk for obesity-related illnesses such as Type II Diabetes, stroke, heart disease, hypertension, mood disorders, and dental caries.

To address policy and environmental factors that create barriers to healthy lifestyle behaviors, GHG and the Guilford County Dept. of Public Health are working together to encourage all restaurants and food facilities in Guilford County to use 0g Trans fats. Over 325 restaurants/facilities have already made the switch to 0g trans fats oils for on-site food preparation. Those who participate can be recognized by the 0g Trans fats decal posted on-site. In addition, 0g trans fats status is identified next to restaurant health grades at the Health Department's web site.

GHG members support active transportation as a fundamental component of a healthy community. In 2010, GHG sponsored an Active Transportation Summit for all community leaders, planning and zoning board members, developers, and other interested individuals/groups. The summit provided information on planning for active transportation (AT), encouraging use of existing AT routes and venues, and integrating AT into healthy lifestyles.