Rebecca Lindberg's Blog

September 6, 2012 - 5:07pm
SWAP IT to DROP IT! Small changes make the difference
 
My husband, Dave, was surprised to learn that he’d lost seven pounds over the last three weeks. How’d he do it? He SWAP-ed his evening ritual of watching two hours of television for coaching football.
 
Dave’s experience is a perfect example of how small changes in what we eat, or the amount of daily physical activity we do, can tip our weight in one direction or the other. And fortunately, these changes don’t have to be big to make a difference! Dave wasn’t trying to lose weight; he just increased his activity by SWAP-ing sitting with standing!
 
In fact, making SWAPs to save just 100 calories each day can help you lose 10 pounds in a year. For example, choose water instead a soda, skip the sugar and creamer in your coffee or downsize your daily soda from 20 ounces to 12 ounces. It’s that easy! Every SWAP makes a difference.
 
That’s why the team at Hearts Beat Back: The Heart of New Ulm Project (HONU) is so excited to announce our SWAP IT to DROP IT campaign, which kicks off in early September. The eight-month community-wide campaign is designed to inspire you to make small changes (SWAPs) every day that can help you lose or maintain weight and improve your health. Each month, the campaign will highlight a different theme and new SWAP IT tips. The September theme is healthy beverages.
 
The campaign runs from September 2012 through April 2013 and we hope you’ll join us to SWAP IT to DROP IT. There are lots of ways to get involved. Check out the following:
 
  • Look for SWAP IT to DROP IT signs in local grocery stores, restaurants and convenience stores. You’ll find tips on how to SWAP IT to DROP IT in each location, as well as campaign promotions and SWAP IT opportunities each month.
  • Sign up for the SWAP IT to DROP IT free six-week Community Health Challenge starting in October. You’ll be inspired to make healthier food and beverage SWAPs — and also SWAPs to help you incorporate more physical activity and life balance into your day. 
  • Read success stories from others in New Ulm who have successfully made SWAPs to eat healthier and lose weight.
  • Dine with a HONU registered dietitian at local restaurants. Learn how to SWAP at Hy-Vee or Cash Wise by attending a grocery store tour or cooking demonstration.
  • Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for additional motivational tips, special promotions and inspiration!