Fall cooking class schedule announced for Mobile, Fairhope teaching kitchens

The USA Health Integrative Health and Wellness Program will launch its series of fall cooking classes this week focused on nutrition education, healthy meal preparation and practical cooking skills.

Classes will be held at the teaching kitchens located at the Mapp Family Campus in Fairhope and University Commons in Mobile and will feature hands-on instruction designed to help participants make healthier food choices at home.  

Participants can expect interactive cooking experiences, recipes to take home and guidance from wellness professionals in a welcoming environment that makes healthy eating approachable and enjoyable.

The fall schedule begins Thursday, Sept. 3, and continues through Tuesday, Nov. 17, with classes covering healthy proteins, plant-forward cooking, healthy carbohydrates and healthy holiday meals.  

A special class on Sept. 24 will feature William Kilgo, M.D., a USA Health neurologist, who will discuss multiple sclerosis and inflammatory diets during a hands-on cooking session at the Mapp Family Campus.

Allison Casey Calhoun, M.D., and Constance Dabezies, M.D., FACOG, NCMP, will pair up to lead a cooking demonstration about nourishment for women, covering healthy eating during pregnancy and menopause. Two sessions will be offered, one on Thursday, Nov. 12, at the Mapp Family Campus and one on Thursday, Nov. 19, at University Commons. Both sessions will be from noon to 1 p.m.

Topics covered during the fall series include:

• Healthy Fats 101 and 102 – Learn about healthy fat sources, how they support overall health and ways to incorporate them into everyday meals.  
• Healthy Protein 101 and 102 – Explore plant- and animal-based protein options and strategies for building balanced meals.  
• Plant Forward 101 – Discover practical ways to incorporate more fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains into your diet.  
• Healthy Carbs 101 and 102 – Understand the role of carbohydrates in a healthy diet and learn how to choose nutrient-rich options.  
• Multiple Sclerosis and Inflammatory Diets – Special session featuring William Kilgo, M.D., USA Health neurologist, discussing nutrition and its role in managing inflammation.  
• Healthy Holiday Sides – Prepare nutritious side dishes perfect for holiday gatherings.  
• Healthy Holiday Meals – Learn how to create flavorful, balanced holiday meals without sacrificing nutrition.  

Hands-on classes are $30 for community members and $5 for USA employees and eligible family members enrolled in Choice or Select health plans. Demonstration classes are $15 for community members and $5 for eligible employees and family members. Payment is due at sign-up.

To view the full schedule and register for a class, visit the USA Health Integrative Health and Wellness Program.

Classes that reach capacity will no longer appear on the registration list. Individuals interested in joining a waitlist may email [email protected].