Weight Management

Information & Links

Blackberries and Raspberries

The prevalence of obesity in Alaska rose 26% from 1992-2000 - Alaska Department of Health and Human Services, April 2003 The original exercise...

In the past, people were much more physically fit, not because they went to the gym and exercised 3 or 4 times a week, but because they worked hard physically everyday. Today, because people look for ways to make their daily lives easier, they often neglect a great way to stay physically fit, the “original exercise” – work.

It’s easy to find ways to do more work. Try pushing the lawn mower instead of riding it, plant a garden with a shovel instead of a tiller, cut wood with a hand saw or ax instead of using a chain saw, or hike to a favorite berry picking spot instead of riding an ATV. Look for ways to add physical activity to your day. The benefit can be a longer, healthier life.

“Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” - Thomas Edison

Southcentral Foundation's Health Education Department provides programs to promote Weight Management, and cardiovascular health.

Southcentral Foundation has plenty to offer for those who desire a healthy lifestyle. The following is a list of current initiatives. Please check back often for updates.

If you are interested in taking part in any of these programs, or would like some more information, please contact Health Education at:

(907) 729-2689

Alaska Native Primary Care Center

Please consult your physician before beginning any exercise program.

Daily Wellness Walks

30 minutes of outdoor exercise. Weekdays 12:15p.m., 3:00p.m. Meet at the south entrance of the Primary Care Center

Hatha Yoga

Combine flexibility and relaxation. Wednesdays 5:15 to 6:15p.m. or 6:30 to 7:30p.m. Cormorant Rooms, PCC 2nd Floor

Elder’s Activity Class

Improve your health through movement. Thursdays 1:30 to 2:30p.m. Kenaitze Center

Diabetes Wellness Gathering

Learn more about diabetes and how to care for yourself and your loved ones. 2nd & 3rd Tuesdays of each month, 1:00 to 3:00p.m. Chugach Rooms, PCC 1st Floor

Traditions of the Heart

A heart disease prevention project for Native women ages 40 to 64. This is a twelve-week course, and registration is required.

And of course you can schedule an individual appointment with a registered dietitian or an exercise specialist by calling (907) 729-2689.

Exercise Improves Sleep Quality In Older Adults

FACT: Elders report more sleep complaints than any other age group.

A Stanford University School of Medicine study found that sedentary older adults who walked or did some form of aerobic exercise four times a week improved their sleep. Exercisers slept about an hour longer each night and cut sleep onset time in half.

Other benefits of exercise include lowered stress levels and increased relaxation.

Source: Ferrini & Ferrini; Health in the Later Years

“It is a mistake to regard age as a downhill grade toward dissolution. The reverse is true. As one grows older, one climbs with surprising strides.” - George Sand (1804-1876)

Physical Activity and Arthritis

“20% of adults reported having been told by a doctor that they have arthritis.” - 2002 Alaska Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS)

Arthritis affects people of all ages. Some of the physical symptoms include swelling, pain, limited movement of joints, stiffness, and fatigue. People who have arthritis may be less active which can put them at higher risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and other conditions.

Being more physically active can help improve daily movements, delay disability and decrease pain. Try to stay active within your limits by walking daily, doing water exercises and stretching. Talk to your Provider or Health Educator to learn more about self-management of arthritis or chronic pain.

'Life only allows you to move forward, because tomorrow you're a new person with past lessons.' - Huong Nguyen


Recommended Internet Links:
Healthy Living

American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) provides this website for information on food and nutrition, physical exercise, and coping with stress in order to prevent health problems.

Native American Food Pyramid

A guide to daily food choices.

Alaska Native/American Indian Girls and Eating Disorders

Eating Disorders information sheet from BodyWise.









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