Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital Launches Free Cooking Matters Class Series

LAURIUM, Mich. – In an initiative to promote better health and nutrition in the community, Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital is excited to announce a free, six-week Cooking Matters class series. This program is designed to empower community members with the skills and knowledge to prepare simple, healthy, and budget-friendly meals. The series aims to cater to everyone, from seasoned cooks to beginners eager to enhance their culinary prowess.

Hands-On Learning Experience

The Cooking Matters classes are crafted to offer hands-on training. Participants will engage in practical cooking sessions where they will learn how to create nutritious meals that won’t strain their wallets. The approach is centered around making healthy eating accessible, enjoyable, and achievable. The focus isn’t just on cooking but on providing simple strategies that can be integrated into daily life.

Breaking Down Barriers to Healthy Eating

Beth Cook, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RND) and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) at Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital, emphasizes the challenges many face when trying to adopt healthier eating habits. “A lot of my patients come in and say, my doctor wants me to start eating healthier, but I hate vegetables,” she explains. This class seeks to address such sentiments by helping participants shift lifelong food habits. By introducing them to flavorful veggie preparations and delicious recipes, the class aims to change perceptions of healthy eating.

Support Beyond the Kitchen

In addition to hands-on guidance in meal preparation, participants will receive free grocery vouchers or groceries to recreate the recipes learned in class at home. This support further encourages individuals to try out what they have learned in a real-world setting, reinforcing their culinary skills and making healthy choices more attainable.

Class Content and Target Audience

The curriculum of the Cooking Matters classes covers essential topics that will arm participants with crucial cooking and nutritional knowledge. Key subjects include:

• Meal Planning: Understanding how to effectively plan meals for the week to save time and money.
• Grocery Shopping on a Budget: Tips and tricks for making the most out of food expenses while buying nutritious ingredients.
• Quick and Easy Meal Prep: Strategies for preparing meals efficiently, which is vital for those with busy lifestyles.
• Healthy Snack Ideas: Suggestions for nutritious snacks that can be prepared at home without hassle.

This class is particularly beneficial for:

• Individuals living with Type 2 diabetes, who require education on managing their diets.
• Those with a body mass index (BMI) over 30, seeking to make healthier lifestyle changes.
• Anyone facing difficulties in accessing affordable, nutritious food options.

Class Schedule and Registration

The Cooking Matters classes will be held on Thursdays, with sessions set for October 16, 23, 30, and November 6, 13, and 20, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. The venue for these engaging sessions will be the Community Dining Hall at Faith Lutheran Church in Laurium.

While participation in the classes is free, space is limited, necessitating early registration. For more information or to secure a spot, interested individuals should call (906) 337-6078.

Conclusion

By launching the Cooking Matters class series, Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital is taking significant steps toward fostering a healthier community. This program exemplifies the hospital’s commitment to bridging the gap between health and accessibility, promoting long-term health benefits through knowledge and practical experience in cooking. Whether you are looking to transform your relationship with food or simply want to enhance your cooking skills, this initiative is designed to meet those needs and more.