While more Iowans than ever are being diagnosed with cancer, more are surviving it too. With a comprehensive approach and by investing in prevention, early detection, research, and survivor care, we can create a future where cancer is no longer a burden in Iowa.

Fall means a full schedule for many families, with school activities, football and holidays. As the days cool down and heaters turn on, the air dries out, leaving us dehydrated. Being dehydrated can cause our skin to become cracked and dry, and can make us feel sluggish, tired and weighed down. Try some of these hydration tips to feel your best even during the dry months.

The costs of inactivity are staggering  for our individual health, our economy, and our state’s future. Iowans get less physical activity than most other states, and many of us aren’t active outside of work at all. A lack of parks and public spaces only makes matters worse, especially for children who need safe, accessible places to play and move. With one-third of adults in Iowa living with obesity and another third living with overweight, it’s never been more important to prioritize physical activity and renew our focus on health.

The food we eat fuels our bodies, minds, and communities. Yet for many Iowans, eating well is far from simple. While food insecurity remains a serious challenge, we must also confront nutrition insecurity; the lack of access to foods that support long-term health.

Mental health affects every corner of our state – from rural communities to urban centers, from classrooms to workplaces. Talking about mental health isn’t new, but the conversation has taken off in recent years, especially since COVID-19 turned life upside down. These days, more people than ever understand how critical mental health is for our overall well-being, and we’re starting to see the stigma surrounding mental illness fade somewhat, particularly among young people. But there is plenty of opportunity to address both stigma and access to mental health services. Here’s the reality: mental health struggles are more common here than a lot of people might think.

Whether you’re fueling tiny learners, teens with sports practice, or yourself, balanced nutrition is the key to better focus, energy and mood. Let’s break it down by age group to help your whole crew thrive.

It’s almost that time! The Healthiest State 15th Annual Walk will take place on Wednesday, October 1st. It can be stressful to plan for a large group, that’s why HSI has put together 8 tips for planning successful walk!

This unique fruit is high in monounsaturated fat which helps keep your cholesterol levels in check and allows the body to absorb fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Just one-third of a medium-sized avocado provides three grams of fiber, a nutrient most Americans fall short on, and more potassium than a banana.

With the freedom of summer vacation often comes the temptation of sugary snacks, fast food stops, and more screen time than steps. Luckily, with just a bit of preparation, you and your family can stay nourished, energized, and fully enjoy everything your summer getaway has to offer. Your Hy-Vee dietitian is here to help with a simple four-step guide to making summer travel a breeze.

Northeast Hamilton Elementary 4th Grade Teacher Joni Smith sat down with the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative to share what their school is doing to promote 5-2-1-0 and healthy habits for their kids. The bottom line: use every resource you can, engage with community partners, and get a little creative!

The Healthiest State Initiative has announced the finalists for the 2025 Healthiest State Annual Awards presented by Wellabe. Workplaces, individuals, youth, schools, early care sites, and health care providers will be recognized for their efforts to improve the physical, social, and mental well-being of Iowans.

Let’s dive into the basics of a gluten-free diet and five must-have gluten-free foods perfect for holiday entertaining.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64% of individuals with mental health conditions report that the holidays worsen their symptoms. Did you know the foods you eat can have a big impact on your mood? Alongside prescribed medications and therapies, nutrition is vital in supporting mental health.

Gov. Kim Reynolds has declared October as Healthiest State Month in Iowa in a proclamation signing. Iowans from all sectors are invited to celebrate with resources, fun activities, and giveaways from the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative and 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! – a nationally recognized and evidence-based prevention framework to promote healthy habits.

See how 2024 Healthiest State Award Winners spent their prize money to continue their work.

As summer ends, it’s time to start planning for going back to school. This can bring a long list of to-dos as you try to set your kids up for a successful school year. It’s also the perfect time to start implementing new healthy habits!

Registration for the Healthiest State 14th Annual Walk, presented by Delta Dental of Iowa, is now open. On Wednesday, October 2nd, thousands of Iowans across the state will participate in organized walks at schools, workplaces, and within their communities. 

This year, Healthiest State Initiative is introducing a new social media challenge—the Active Early Care Challenge! Early care centers who complete the challenge will have the chance to win money, gain accesses to additional free resources, and free 5-2-1-0 swag!

August means a lot of things: back-to-school, savoring what’s left of farmers market season, and enduring the end-of-summer heat—but nothing compares to the Iowa State Fair. This year, let's make our fair adventures as healthy as they are fun!

Intermittent fasting, a dietary approach that has gained popularity, is being hailed for its potential health and weight loss benefits. As Hy-Vee dietitians, we know eating isn’t one-size-fits-all. Let’s explore what intermittent fasting involves, its underlying mechanisms, potential health benefits, who should abstain from it and practical advice for those contemplating this dietary approach.