By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has released a new Healthy Eating Active Living Guidelines Toolkit. The resource helps organizations create healthier environments where food is sold or served. It also supports spaces where people gather and make daily choices.
The HEAL Guidelines are designed for workplaces. They also serve community organizations. Nonprofits and public agencies can apply them to their operations. The focus includes food quality, beverage options, physical activity access, and sustainability practices.
“The HEAL Guidelines Toolkit is available at no cost and is easy to use,” Buckingham-Schutt said.
The guidelines are part of Iowa LEAP. This statewide initiative addresses high obesity rates. ISU Extension leads the effort. Iowa LEAP works under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention High Obesity Program.
Iowa LEAP partners with local organizations. It supports healthier food access. It creates safe places for physical activity. The initiative encourages lasting change through improved policies and environments.
“By embedding HEAL Guidelines within the LEAP initiative, ISU Extension and Outreach is strengthening organizational policies as a sustainable strategy for long-term community health improvement,” Buckingham-Schutt said.
The HEAL Guidelines support a wide range of settings. These include meetings and cafeterias. Vending spaces are also covered. Community celebrations and events are included.
Organizations can select from three levels of commitment. These are Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Each level allows gradual progress.
“The commitment levels allow organizations to begin where they are and build over time. Whether an organization is just starting or expanding existing wellness efforts, the HEAL Guidelines help make the healthy choice the easy choice,” Buckingham-Schutt said.
Healthy food environments influence daily decisions. Workplaces and public spaces play a strong role. Access to healthier options improves diet quality. Research shows reductions in sodium, sugar, and excess calories.
“Across dozens of studies, implementing healthy food service guidelines consistently improved the availability of healthier options and reduced high-sodium, high-sugar and high-calorie offerings,” Buckingham-Schutt said. “Improving the food environment is a powerful lever for population health. It supports healthier habits, improves diet quality and signals organizational commitment to employee and community well-being.”
The toolkit includes assessment tools. It provides policy templates. Communication resources are included.
“The toolkit is designed to be practical and adaptable and to support long-term success,” Buckingham-Schutt noted.
Organizations may receive recognition from ISU Extension by submitting a commitment form. Participation remains voluntary. No regulatory obligation is created. The program reflects a shared commitment to healthier Iowa communities.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, General