It's a nationally celebrated public health initiative by the Produce for Better Health Foundation and the Center for Disease Control.
I thought we could celebrate by reviewing Alphabet Appetite: a curriculum developed by the Church Health Center designed to introduce children to healthy foods. The goal of this curriculum is to help prevent childhood obesity, build literacy, provide healthy snack options, educate and encourage families to try healthy foods together.
A is for apple. Apples provide 13 minerals that you require daily. A simple mix of apple, walnut, and yogurt can make for a great breakfast or snack.
B is for bell pepper. Bell peppers are fat free, cholesterol free, low in calories and high in vitamin C.
C is for cucumber. Cucumbers have most of the vitamins the body needs in a single day. They aid in digestion and are low calories.
D is for dried fruit. Adding a handful to your breakfast cereal or oatmeal can add fiber and nutrients.
E is for edamame. Edamame is young soybean, rich in plant based protein.
Getting hungry? Here is a quick recipe for you:
· 1 cup edamame, shelled
· 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
· 1 cup chopped tomato
· ½ cup avocado
· ½ cup red onion
· ¼ cup red wine vinegar
Mix, chill and serve! And remember, More really does Matter! This is Sheila Harrell with the Church Health Center
If you have a question for Life Matters, send it to health@wkno.org