An adult Nutrition Education Program group with 17 participants was held at the Family Health Centers 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. Before the courses were taught, the assistant noticed 57% of the participants consume 21+% of their calories from solid fats and added sugars, which is an additional 244 calories. Afterwards, it was made clear solid fats and added sugars should be the main focus for this particular group.

                The participants were able to practice and prepare recipes in class, which would then translate into their own kitchen. One recipe used was the red beans and rice, January recipe, from the 2018 Food and Nutrition calendar. The recipe called for turkey sausage, which has a lower fat content than regular sausage. Each of the participants were also able to apply information learned in class to real-life applications, such as switching from beef to turkey because of the lower fat content or using oil instead of butter.

                After the seven core lessons were completed, 57% of the participants consumed less than 10% of their calories through solid fats and added sugars, which is 119 calories compared to the 244. Many of the participants told the assistant they started to use oil instead of butter. As seen from the data, there was an overall decrease of percentage of calories from solid fats and added sugars. Many of the participants shared they gained valuable information from this class, and they all wanted to participate in the program again!