Fitness Fest 2014

An event about changing lifestyles is just what Mississippi needs to help combat the current obesity epidemic. And, that is just what 1000s of families got to participate in one Saturday morning in Jackson, MS. Fitness Fest, an interactive event, got families moving in easy, fun activities that encourages better fitness and health choices. The day was all about showing families fit and healthy can be fun!

This fantastic, full-day event featured countless attractions for kids of all ages, and parents too. I was proud to be a part of a positive event, and share my knowledge as a registered dietitian on the benefits of flavored milk for children and adults. Passing out 500 low-chocolate milks was the highlight of my day, but there were some other equally exciting exhibits.

Parents had the chance to get their health related questions answered from a panel of health professionals. It was an honor to sit alongside other medical experts such as family physicians, pediatricians, and fitness specialists, and to take questions from concerned parents.

My favorite question came from a parent worried that her toddler isn’t a fan of meat. Being the nutrition expert on stage I answered this one. “It is good to remember that there are many meat free options to getting quality protein in the diet. Dairy foods, such as milk, cheese and yogurt are nutrient-dense foods packed full of the high quality protein children need. And, children who drink white or flavored milk have greater nutrient intakes; getting 8 grams of protein per cup,” I told them. I just loved seeing the relief in the parent’s eyes.

There was also a giant walk-through inflatable heart with easy to understand information on cardiac health. Plus it’s totally cool to walk inside a human heart! Live music, comedy, dancing, Zumba, yoga, sports, and more rounded out a totally cool, fun day of fitness!

Written by Rebecca Turner, MS, RD, CSSD, LD

Rebecca Turner, MS RD CSSD is a sports nutrition expert and fitness enthusiast. She works as nutrition affairs manager for SUDIA in Mississippi and Louisiana and believes everyone should take time for good health and a run.