Burlington, Vermont, Named Healthiest US City

Copycat Options for Improving Your Own Health

Burlington, Vermont, a college town on Lake Champlain, has been declared the healthiest city in the United States of America, according to a CDC study. The study cited overall good health reported by its residents and low levels of obesity, diabetes and other disease indicators. The largest city in Vermont, Burlington's average resident is age 37 according to the Census Bureau, comparable to the average US population of 36.5 years as of 2006.

Population just under 39,000, Burlington, Vermon,t also boasts favorable economic conditions with only 8 percent of its residents living at the Federal poverty level by contrast to the national average of 12.3 percent.

Assuming that you're not planning a move to Burlington in the hopes of improving your health, what lessons can you learn from Burlington's experience?

Increase Your Education Level

Burlington's population is well-educated. Almost 40% of the Burlington population holds at least a college level degree. In the least healthy city in the nation, Huntington, West Virginia, only about 15 percent of the population holds a college degree. Additional education can add to your knowledge about health and to your earning potential, favorably affecting your ability to take care of yourself and to reduce your stress level.

Exercise Regularly

Burlington, Vermont, is an active city with its residents spending time bicycling, hiking and skiing among other athletic pursuits. While skiing may not be an option depending on where you live, bicycling and hiking are activities that most people can enjoy.

Choose Food Options Carefully

Even those with low incomes can buy healthy food from Burlington, Vermont's sole downtown grocer, a food co-op, according to CNN. Cooperative groceries tend to provide healthier food options as well as bulk food choices. You can find out about cooperative groceries in your area by contacting national food coop groups such as the National Cooperative Grocers Association whose web page lists member coops nationwide. The Green Guide is an excellent resource for people who want to start a food coop in their area.

Health Benefits