An adult Nutrition Education Program group with 7 participants was held at Shawnee Christian Health Care Center in Jefferson County. Lessons were presented by the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Educator (SNAP-Ed) with the Jefferson County Cooperative Extension Service using the “Healthy Choices for Every Body” curriculum, which focused around seven core lessons. When reviewing the entry paperwork, the SNAP-Ed Assistant noticed none of the participants (0%) were consuming whole grains in their diet, which made it clear that the topic of MyPlate needed to be addressed and implemented throughout every lesson.

                The participants were able to practice and prepare recipes in class using all five of the food groups, which would then translate into their own kitchen. One recipe used was the pasta primavera, which used whole grain noodles, mixed vegetables, parmesan cheese, and skim evaporated milk. This reduced the fat intake due to the skim evaporated milk and increased consumption of whole grains and vegetables. Each of the participants were also able to apply information learned in class to real-life applications, such as what food items were considered to be whole grain: oatmeal, whole grain pasta, brown rice, etc.

                After the seven core lessons were completed, 71% of the participants consumed at least 1-3 oz of whole grains per day. The participants were able to make half of their grain group to be whole grain. One of the participants felt she gained so much valuable information from the classes and the food demonstrations, she recommended a friend to come to the program!