(MAHASKA COUNTY, Iowa) – Mahaska Health Partnership is sponsoring a four-part learning series called, “Soups on Us,” which offers enlightening facts and motivational tips to encourage a healthier lifestyle.
These events are scheduled from Noon to 1 PM on their respective dates (below) at the Mahaska County YMCA conference room. They are free and open to the public. Attendees will receive a free soup lunch, provided by MHP.
According to MHP Registered Dietitian Lea Rice, most people will come to a crossroad at some point in time where they find themselves re-assessing their lifestyle choices. They begin to realize that how they eat and how much sleep they get makes a difference in our quality of life.
“The challenge is knowing what truly has an impact, how to implement changes and then how to stay on track,” Rice explains. “This series will provide simple and practical approaches to meeting our needs.”
“Portion Distortion” will be held on Thursday, March 15. Rice will discuss how large portions lead to eating excess calories. She will also offer simple tips such as eating off smaller plates, using appropriate size glasses and measuring food for portion control. She’ll compare portion sizes from 20 years ago to portion sizes today. Attendees will learn how the portion sizes have grown over the years, leading to an increase in obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
“Hypertension” will be held on Thursday, March 29. Renee Edgar, RN, will be explain how high blood pressure, or hypertension, is sometimes called the “silent killer” because it does not cause symptoms unless it is severely high. Edgar will also explain how major organ damage can occur without the person’s knowledge. Participants will also learn steps they can take to lower their blood pressure.
“Healthy Sleep” will be held on Thursday, April 12. MHP Polysomnographer and Sleep Center Coordinator Kai Schwab, RPSGT, RST, will explain why sleep is important for a healthy lifestyle and what the new recommendations are for the amount of sleep needed. You will learn about common sleep problems (insomnia, sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome) as well as current treatments.
“Stop Diabetes in Its Tracks” will be held on Thursday, April 26. MHP Diabetes Educator Sharon Ferguson, RN, CDE and Rice will delve into the impact of family history, pre-diabetes and diabetes. Learn how to make simple lifestyle changes that will have a huge impact on your health.
While attendance is free, pre-registration for each of the Soups on Us events is required. Please call 641-672-3303 to reserve your spot.
