The 3 Healthiest & 3 Unhealthiest Counties In North Dakota

Obesity is a problem across America.

It leads to a plethora of chronic health problems and diseases.  By simply staying within a healthy weight range, you are far less likely to develop chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, or cancer.

According to the CDC, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are the leading causes of death, and disability in the United States.

Most Chronic Diseases are oftentimes because of a short list of risky behaviors including:

Tobacco use- It's crazy how many of my friends smoke or chew.  People just don't seem to get the message.

Poor nutrition- There's a reason why your parents were always after you to eat your fruits and veggies.  Too many people with diets low in fruits and vegetables, and high in sodium and saturated fats.

Excessive alcohol use- A beer or two on the weekend is no big deal, and might even have some health benefits. Getting wasted every weekend will likely lead to trouble for your health.

Physical Inactivity- Get a health membership and use it daily.  If nothing else, walk and get your steps in daily to keep a healthy weight.

Our friends at Niche came up with a list of the healthiest and unhealthiest counties in North Dakota.

Their list was based on rates of smoking, alcohol use, obesity, access to healthcare, mental health access, and access to fitness centers.

Let's look at the unhealthiest counties first.

#3 most unhealthy- Hettinger

#2 most unhealthy- Grant

#1 most unhealthy- Sioux.

Interesting to note that all of these counties are in southwest or south-central North Dakota.

These are the healthiest counties in North Dakota.

#3 most healthy- Dickey

#2 most healthy- Burleigh (yea Bismarck!)

#1 most healthy- Cass

Morton County came in at #9 (not too bad Mandan)

Now, let's hit the gym!