WOODSTOCK IL – The CDC says eating healthy helps lower the risk for many chronic diseases. In recognition of National Nutrition Month, the Crystal Lake Food Pantry is inviting patrons to register for a series of 10 no-cost classes that begin on March 22.  The classes, entitled the “Whole Body Approach to Disease Prevention” are a partnership between the Northern IL Food Bank, the Crystal Lake Food Pantry and The McHenry County Department of Health.  Class participants will receive produce and a recipe at the end of each class.  For questions or to register, contact Carol Waggoner at 815-334-4580.

According to Carol Waggoner, RN, an Educator for McHenry County Department of Health, “These classes are designed to help you make positive changes in your lifestyle.  We recognize that there is so much more involved in eating healthy than just knowing which foods are nutritious.  That’s why we focus on the whole body.  Topics to be covered include things like stress management, positive thinking, enjoyable physical activity as well as a cooking demonstration.  There are even some tips on practicing mindfulness.”

The “Whole Body Approach to Disease Prevention” classes, conducted weekly, are modeled after a curriculum developed by the Northern Illinois Food Bank and Northern Illinois University.  Although this is the first time the class has been offered in McHenry County, plans are underway to have the class in Harvard and McHenry in the late summer or early fall. 

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