LINCOLN, Neb. (RFD-TV) — As the new year begins, many people are focused on starting — and sticking with — healthier habits. On Rural Health Matters, experts from the University of Nebraska are offering guidance tailored to the unique challenges facing rural communities.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold, president of the University of Nebraska, joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to discuss why New Year’s health resolutions can be difficult to maintain and how people can take a more realistic approach to improving their health in 2026.
In an interview with RFD-TV News, Dr. Gold explained why motivation often fades after the start of the year and why many people struggle to stay committed to their goals. He emphasized the value of focusing on small, manageable habits rather than overwhelming resolutions that can be hard to sustain.
Dr. Gold also discussed the differences between rural and urban health challenges, including limited access to gyms and grocery stores in rural areas. He addressed how farm work and shift work can impact health, particularly when it comes to sleep and nutrition.
Additionally, Dr. Gold encouraged people not to give up when they fall off track, stressing that resetting goals is part of the process and that persistence matters more than perfection.
Before wrapping up the conversation, Dr. Gold shared final thoughts on working toward better health in 2026, encouraging realistic expectations and steady progress.
AFBF Economist Faith Parum provides analysis and perspective on the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program—what commodity growers should know and potential remedies for producers facing crop losses where that aid falls short.
January 08, 2026 02:45 PM
·
Federal nutrition policy is signaling a stronger demand for whole foods produced by U.S. farmers and ranchers. Consumer-facing guidance favors animal protein, but institutional demand may change little under existing saturated fat limits.
January 08, 2026 11:42 AM
·
Farmer Bridge payments are being used primarily to reduce debt and protect cash flow, not drive new spending. Curt Blades with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers joined us to provide insight into the ag equipment market and the factors influencing sales.
January 08, 2026 08:00 AM
·
North Dakota CO₂ Storage Law Struck Down
January 07, 2026 03:03 PM
·
Dr. Rosslyn Biggs with the Oklahoma State University Center for Rural Veterinary Medicine shares insight into biosecurity, preparedness, and animal health concerns facing livestock producers as New World screwworm outbreaks continue in Mexico.
January 07, 2026 12:57 PM
·
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins today released the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025–2030.
January 07, 2026 11:55 AM
As the new year begins, both farmers and rural families are taking stock of their finances and planning ahead for 2026.
January 06, 2026 03:23 PM
·
Roger McEowen with the Washburn University School of Law joined us to provide legal insight and context on these issues facing agriculture. Today, he discusses pesticide litigation.
January 06, 2026 01:39 PM
·
Sen. Deb Fischer reintroduces the HAULS Act to update hours-of-service exemptions and definitions affecting livestock and agricultural haulers. She joins us on Market Day Report to share more about her proposed legislation.
January 06, 2026 01:28 PM
·