USA Health integrates nutrition and culinary medicine to combat high rates of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and stroke prevalent in the Gulf Coast region due to unhealthy eating habits.
The Integrative Health and Wellness Program at USA Health emphasizes evidence-based nutrition education and culinary medicine to empower individuals in making positive lifestyle changes. Teaching kitchens at University Commons in Mobile and the Mapp Family Campus in Fairhope serve as hubs for hands-on learning experiences, promoting the concept that food can be medicine.
Founded under Dr. David M. Eisenberg’s guidance, the Teaching Kitchen Collaborative integrates these practices into various settings to improve public health. Research shows participants in teaching kitchen programs experience sustained health improvements in metrics like blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
USA Health continues to expand its teaching kitchen initiatives, including plans for a new facility within its forthcoming medical school building, highlighting its commitment to promoting wellness through practical nutrition education and culinary skills development.
For more information about USA Health’s Integrative Health and Wellness Program and upcoming culinary classes, visit their website at www.usahealthsystem.com/specialties/integrative.
