UI Wellness offers nutrition challenge

File photo by Tom Jorgensen.

The days are growing shorter and colder. What better time is there to focus on one’s nutrition and get a head start on New Year’s resolutions? The latest challenge from University of Iowa Wellness encourages university faculty and staff to do just that.

The Good Stuff: Nutrition Edition is an eight-week campaign, from Monday, Nov. 5 to Sunday, Dec. 30, that focuses on the implementation of the healthy eating recommendations at www.ChooseMyPlate.gov. The challenge has the feel of a video game—there are four levels of play, each featuring a healthy eating habit for the “players” to adopt (eating more fruits and vegetables, switching to fat-free or low-fat milk, choosing whole grains, and drinking water instead of sugary drinks). Upon mastering each level, participants complete a self-care activity and progress to the next level. Educational resources are provided along the way.

At the end of the challenge, participants earn points that can be redeemed at the UI Wellness store for Hawkeye gear, exercise equipment, fitness passes, or massage gift certificates. Best of all, they’ll walk away with a handful of sound eating habits in place to leave them feeling healthy and full of energy.

To enroll in the wellness challenge or for more information, visit the UI Wellness website at www.uiowa.edu/hr/wellness.