Julie Garden-Robinson, Extension food and nutrition specialist and professor of health, nutrition and exercise sciences, is featured in a recent WalletHub story.

“2022’s Most Overweight and Obese Cities in the U.S.,” written by financial writer Adam McCann, was posted March 14.

Garden-Robinson was one of six experts from around the country to be interviewed for the piece.

She was asked to respond to these questions:

• What are some tips for eating healthy without breaking the bank?

• What measures can individuals take to prevent severe complications in the event they contract COVID-19?

• Should employers play a role in helping workers maintain a healthy lifestyle? If so, how?

• What policies should federal and/or state governments pursue to combat obesity and lower the cost of healthcare?

“Combating the ongoing issues associated with childhood and adult obesity is complete but extremely important,” Garden-Robinson said in the article. “Obesity rates have doubles since 1980, with one-third of U.S. adults considered obese. Obesity is associated with the development of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, some types of cancer, joint issues and other health issues. All of these potential outcomes of obesity carry great costs in healthcare and quality of life. Public health practitioners promote the implementation of policy, system and environmental changes to support healthy behavior among adults and youth.”

Garden-Robinson earned her bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees at NDSU.

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