By tamara
It may surprise you to learn that November, a month in which we celebrate by over-eating (Thanksgiving), is also Good Nutrition Month. Did you know that no state in the United States has an obesity rate lower than 21%, and approximately one-third (33.8%) of all U.S. adults are obese? The rates for childhood obesity have tripled over the last 30 years; there are now over 12.5 million children and adolescents who are over-weight. People who are obese are at greater risk for bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and social and psychological problems such as stigmatization and poor self-esteem, as well as a host of other health risk factors. It’s definitely time to take a closer look at what we eat and start making healthier choices. To help get you excited about making the change to a healthy lifestyle, I’ve listed some financial incentives (scholarships about good nutrition) that may provide you with free money for college. All you have to do is choose to make a difference in yourself or in your community.
Healthy Lifestyles Scholarship: First scholarships about good nutrition is the Healthy Lifestyles Scholarship. To be eligible for this award, you must be a citizen of the U.S. or Canada, be under 25 years of age and provide an answer to the following essay question (1,000 words or less): “Why is a healthy lifestyle important in school?” One $5,000 scholarship will be awarded.
Youth Leadership Scholarship Program: Second scholarships about good nutrition is the Youth Leadership Scholarship. Any high school senior in Manitoba (Canada) who has engaged in meaningful leadership and citizenship volunteer activities during the past year that were targeted at promoting healthy living in his/her community or school may apply. A total of 200 scholarships will be awarded; each scholarship is worth $500.
Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship: Third scholarships about good nutrition is the Vegetarian Resource Group Scholarship. U.S. high school seniors who have promoted vegetarianism in their schools or communities should apply and include essays that address any of the topics: how they promoted vegetarianism, the challenges/successes promoting this lifestyle or why being a vegetarian is important. Two $5,000 scholarships will be awarded.
Hopefully, these scholarship programs will inspire you to make a change in your eating habits and lifestyle. By adding more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and a little exercise to your life, you’ll find yourself having more energy and carrying around a little less weight. Don’t wait until January to make a healthy resolution; kick things off now and you’ll be feeling fantastic by 2012. Hopefully, the only place you’ll see a little more “fat” is in your college savings account!