Eating for Life

Eating for Life is a program designed by a registered dietitian nutritionist that gives you the knowledge and skills to eat the right amount and right variety of foods to promote good health. This program offers a variety of resources to help keep you informed on how to stay healthy.

Helpful Resources

Eating for Life Booklet
A downloadable guide developed by a registered dietitian to give you the knowledge and skills to eat the right amount and variety of foods to promote good health.

Eating for Life Video Library
Watch a collection of videos that will help you adopt healthy eating habits.

_{This information is intended for individuals who are 18 years and older only and those living in the Sentara/Optima Health service areas.}

Calculate Your Body Mass Index

Use this interactive tool calculates your body mass index, which will help you to determine if you’re overweight. If you are, this tool will help you to take positive action.

Visit the body mass index calculator

Weight Management for Children

To help your child maintain a healthy weight, balance the calories your child gets from foods and beverages with the calories your child burns through physical activity and normal growth.You can encourage healthy eating by serving healthy options – offer more fruits and vegetables and fewer sodas and high-calorie, high-fat snack foods. Physical activity can also help your child overcome obesity or being overweight. Kids need about 60 minutes each day. If a weight loss program is necessary, involve the whole family in healthy habits so your child doesn't feel singled out.

Tips for Parents — Helpful information from the CDC on helping your child maintain a healthy weight.

Healthy Weight for Children — Learn about your child's growth pattern. Children grow at different rates, so it isn't always easy to know when a child is obese or overweight.

Online Pediatric BMI Calculator — Measure your child's height and weight to determine if he or she is in a healthy range. Use this calculator for children and teens, aged 2 through 19 years old.

MyPlate Kids’ Place — Games, activities and healthy eating tips just for kids

Girls Health — Interactive health activities for girls

Health Coaching — Optima Health provides support to help keep families healthy. Call the member services phone number on your Optima Health card for more information.