Young adult participants in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme have pledged to ‘love their bodies’ by drinking more water, avoiding junk food and not eating too much pastries and sweets.

They made this commitment was renewed after they observing Caribbean Wellness Day last Saturday, September 8, with an early-morning beach hike.

‘Love That Body’ was the theme of the health and fitness day event.

The event which also served as the launch of the local youth group’s 2012 – 2013 Award year. The ‘Dukers’ also reviewed hand-outs which that outlined health issues such as smoking, drugs, alcohol, healthy eating and vitamins.

Areas Issues discussed included nutrition, physical activity, mental health, and substance abuse, and environmental health.

As physical recreation is a primary activity component of The Duke of Edinburgh’s programme, the Caribbean Award Scheme Sub-Regional Council (CASC) encouraged all members to integrate Caribbean Wellness Day as a special event.

Healthy eating and physical activity is being promoted throughout the region as the best prevention for heart disease, Type II diabetes, strokes, childhood obesity, high cholesterol or high blood pressure.  Especially so, as more young people are falling victim to these diseases – which are largely lifestyle related.

Young people from the ages of 14 to 25 are invited to join The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.  For further information, please contact Ms. Katherine Jackson at 925 5291 or email [email protected].

Press Release and Photos by Information Officer Lennon Christian