Good nutrition and sufficient physical activity are the fundamental basis of a healthy life. Food and its pattern of intake can either contribute to or help prevent a wide variety of illnesses. Leading an active life, complete with periods of vigorous activity or exercise, keeps the body strong, lean, and fit. These elements are some of the most controllable of all risk factors for disease, yet many Americans continue to neglect either or both.

Reference: Texas Department of Health. (2003). Strategic Plan for the prevention of Obesity in Texas. Retrieved 12/03/2005 from http://www.dkhs.state.tx.us/phn/pdf/obesityplan.pdf