FARGO, N.D. (NDSU Extension) – As we age, we may not be as active as we used to be. Maybe we have put on a few extra pounds, or we’ve developed health issues such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

North Dakota State University Extension has developed Nourish, a program to provide North Dakotan adults, especially those age 50 and older in rural counties, with information and strategies about nutrition. Participants in the series will learn how to eat more nutritiously and be more physically active so they can reduce their risk of developing chronic diseases.

NDSU Extension in Barnes County will host a series of seven weekly classes in 2024. Classes are FREE and will be held on Wednesdays from 10:30am-11:15am beginning Jan 10th through February 14th at the South Central Senior Center. Participants also may take part in self-paced online modules. Prizes and certificates will be provided for those who complete at least six of the seven classes or online modules.

Each class will focus on one topic, such as how to keep your eyes healthy. Other topics include how to keep your heart, brain, digestive system, skin, bones and joints healthy – and strategies for getting more sleep. Visit https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/nourish to register. If you aren’t able to attend a class or want more information on the topic covered in a session, you can enroll in both the web-based and face-to-face classes. If you are unable to register via a computer or mobile device, please contact the NDSU Extension Office in Barnes County. Classes will include hands-on activities and time for discussion. Participants will receive material such as handouts and healthful recipes to take home.

Anyone can sign up for the free monthly newsletter by visiting the website or contacting the Barnes County Extension office at 845.8528. Participating county Extension offices also will have Facebook pages to interact with their clients.

“Our goal is to provide nutrition and overall wellness education and online support to help adults sustain a healthy lifestyle,” says Julie Garden-Robinson, Extension food and nutrition specialist. “Good health is important for enjoying a high quality of life and for maintaining independence in later life,” says NDSU professor and project co-director Sherri Stastny. “This program offers the tools to help us enhance our overall wellbeing.”

The project is supported by a Rural Health and Safety Education program grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.