Food is Medicine

Culinary Medicine Program

Combining the art of cooking with the science of medicine

Hands-On Cooking About Culinary Medicine Program Features

Hands-On Cooking

ChristianaCare’s Culinary Medicine initiative enhances our current FIM programs by offering our Primary Care eligible patients with a six-week hands-on cooking series. Participants attend classes co-led by a primary care provider certified in culinary medicine and a registered dietitian, using the evidence-based Health Meets Food curriculum. Sessions focus on nutrition education, culturally relevant recipes, and practical lifestyle strategies to manage chronic diseases.

About Culinary Medicine

Culinary Medicine is an evidence-based field that combines the art of cooking with the science of medicine to help individuals make informed decisions about their dietary habits. It emphasizes the importance of preparing and consuming high-quality meals tailored to prevent and treat specific health conditions. Unlike traditional nutrition or dietetics, culinary medicine focuses on practical applications, teaching patients and healthcare providers how to prepare meals that align with medical advice and cultural preferences.

At ChristianaCare, the Culinary Medicine Program is an integral component of our Food is Medicine initiatives. The program aims to empower patients, especially those managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, by providing them with the tools and knowledge to make healthier food choices. Through hands-on cooking classes, patients learn to prepare nutritious meals that cater to their specific health needs, cultural backgrounds, and personal preferences.

Program Features

Key features of the program include:

Personalized Cooking Sessions: Led by trained healthcare professionals and chefs, these sessions focus on teaching patients how to prepare meals that support their health goals.
Nutrition Education: Participants receive guidance on understanding nutritional labels, portion sizes, and the role of various nutrients in managing health conditions.
Cultural Relevance: Recognizing the importance of cultural preferences, the program incorporates diverse cuisines and cooking methods to ensure relevance and acceptance among participants.
Collaborative Approach: The program fosters collaboration between dietitians, physicians, and culinary experts to provide comprehensive care and support.

By integrating culinary medicine into patient care, ChristianaCare aims to address the root causes of diet-related illnesses, reduce healthcare costs, and promote long-term health and wellness. This approach not only enhances patient outcomes but also empowers individuals to take an active role in their health journey through informed food choices and cooking practices.