Through the Pike County Cooperative Extension Service’s The Expanded Food Nutritional Education Program, thirteen ladies at the Pike County West Care Rehabilitation were provided with nutritional classes from The Healthy Choices for Every Body curriculum.

These ladies were taught how to plan meals with portion control in mind, read nutrition labels, and how to eat better balanced meals on a budget. They were able to demonstrate knowledge gained on food safety, knowing the limits on empty calories, and the importance of breakfast. They also gained knowledge on the importance of incorporating exercise into family routine.

One hundred percent of the thirteen ladies who entered the program graduated. Eighty-two percent improved their diet quality such as preparing food without salt and deciding on healthy food choices for their families. Sixty-five percent improved on food safety such as not thawing food on the counter, using a thermometer to test for doneness, and cleaning the kitchen as they cook.  Seventy-two percent improved on food resource management by demonstrating how to shop with a grocery store list, and checking the pantry before shopping. Eighty-two percent of participants increased in physical activity by exercising at least thirty minutes a day and making small changes in their overall life.

One client wrote “I know that I have become more aware of the food choices I make. I realize how important it is to my health to be more aware of the foods I choose. I never knew how much sugar, fat, and sodium I was putting into my body. This class was an eye opener for me and I know it has helped me be more health conscious”.