Cooking club leads to healthy lifestyle

by Nola Tramble

Major Program: Health 4-H Core Curriculum

The obesity epidemic threatens the quality and years of life of people in Trigg County. Obese individuals are at increased risk for many chronic health conditions, including type-2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancers. Healthcare Profile for winter 2014 indicates that 33.8% of adults are obese and 35.3% are physically inactive. 11.8% of adults in the county have diabetes. 28.7% (23.2-33.45) of Trigg County residents report being diagnosed with high blood pressure. We know that if the behaviors that bring about these chronic diseases are present in adults they are likely to be passed on to the children, thus perpetuating the cycle. Through 4-H cooking, we are reversing the trend, by instilling healthy habits in youth that will continue for a lifetime. These lifestyle changes will impact the next generation as these youth marry and have children.

The 4-H Cooking club was led by the Trigg County NEP assistant. The 12 members met for a series of 8 club meetings using the Teen Cuisine curriculum along with SNAP-ED and Kentucky Proud recipes. The goal of the club was to help youth become self-sufficient in the kitchen, while learning healthy habits that will last a lifetime and influence the people around them.

As youth learn to cook and eat better, they will influence their family’s eating habits by choosing and preparing good foods and snacks. The objectives are that members can distinguish between high and low nutrient dense foods and snacks; describe the MyPlate food groups and incorporate it into meal planning.  

By the end of the series, the youth can read and follow a recipe, using correct cooking and measuring techniques and use safe food handling practices, including knife safety.

100% of the members indicated they incorporated healthy habits in their lives. The majority, 50% indicated increased consumption of fruits and vegetables. Increased fruit and vegetable consumption reduces the risk of many cancer and other chronic diseases.  Increased knowledge of the importance of healthy eating and the importance of nutrition will lead to a healthier lifestyle and overall better health.