Healthy Weight Week, observed in January, brings awareness to the troubling fact that in the United States, the number of obese children and teens has continued to rise over the past two decades. In addition, as one ages, maintaining a healthy weight is important. One way to accomplish this includes paying attention to lifestyle choices. A healthy weight may reduce one’s risk of some health problems, including a variety of cancers.

Healthy Weight Week experts believe eating a healthy diet is the biggest factor in weight loss. If one is overweight, it is important to lose weight in a healthy way, not by starvation diets. Moderate exercise also may have great health benefits. Getting active is the other half of weight loss.

Today’s healthy dinner:

Ground Turkey Enchilada Stir-Fry with Couscous

1/2 cup whole wheat couscous

1 pound lean ground turkey

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 teaspoon olive oil

2 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded and diced

1 cup broccoli florets

One 15-ounce can no-sodium-added black beans

One 10-ounce can enchilada sauce

1/2 cup salsa

Suggested toppings: chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, lime juice

Pour 1/2 cup of water into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Pour the couscous into the saucepan and stir well. Turn off the heat, cover and let stand 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet or wok, cook the ground turkey over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until cooked through and browned, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with some salt and pepper. Transfer to a bowl and set aside. Drain the excess fat and wipe the pan clean. Heat the oil in the same pan over high heat, then add the squash and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and softened, 8 to 10 minutes. Add the broccoli and cook, 3 to 5 minutes more. Add the turkey, beans, enchilada sauce and salsa and stir until all the ingredients are well combined.

Serve with the couscous and top with suggested toppings as desired.

-by Ambrea Marshall CHR Director