In a new section in Healthy New Albany Magazine, we talk to prominent national or
Photo by Scott Cunningham
community figures who have made their mark on Columbus in some way and learn about what they do on a regular basis to stay healthy. We had a chance to talk with New Albany Public Information Officer Scott McAfee.
Healthy New Albany: Are there any foods that you avoid or emphasize?
Scott McAfee: I love vegetables and fruits, and I try to have a lot of color in my diet. I generally get my protein from meats, and I don’t worry much about fat intake. I try to have desserts and processed white flour products in moderation, because those items are my weight gain trigger.
HNA: What are your favorite ways to stay active?
SM: I feel better when I’m moving. I love to run. Running while vacationing is a great way to experience a new place; and here at home, I can run outside well into the winter as long as the temperatures stay above 10 degrees. I also like cycling, swimming and walking my dog with my wife, Melinda.
HNA: What do you like to do to relax?
SM: If I’m not out on a run or watching one of my kids in their own sports activities, my secret pleasure is auto racing. Of course, during autumn, as an alumnus of The Ohio State University, I love watching Buckeye football.
HNA: Where are your favorite outdoor spots around New Albany to take a walk?
SM: New Albany has more than 30 miles of trails, so walking and running are accessible just about anywhere. I particularly love running around Lambton Park, Fenway, the New Albany Country Club and Odgen Woods through Market Square. Getting out in such a beautiful setting at lunchtime can really spark one’s creativity.
HNA: How does being part of the New Albany community help you stay focused on health and wellness?
SM: New Albany embraces health as a core value. It’s a way of life for many here, and our community is small enough that there is little bureaucracy when great ideas take root. Healthy New Albany is a fantastic example. More than a decade ago, Phil Heit planted the seed for a walk and watched it grow. Today, we now have a farmers market, a community garden, this magazine, healthful options in restaurants and the Philip Heit Center for Healthy New Albany, New Albany’s health destination with wonderful health care partners. But all of this started simply by having people get out and put one foot in front of the other, which is something I try to do as often as I can.
