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Community Corner

Recipe for a Healthy Family

On Saturday, January 19 from 2-4 pm, the American Cancer Society in partnership with My Halal Kitchen will present an interactive nutrition program, Recipe for a Healthy Family, at the Islamic Center of Des Plaines.


Halal is meat prepared in the manner prescribed by Islamic law.


Yvonne Maffei, publisher of MyHalalKitchen.com along with Char Padovani, Health Initiatives manager, American Cancer Society, NW suburban region, will provide participants with the tools they need to keep their families healthy. Attendees will enjoy a live cooking demo and see how to make healthy, simple recipes in the halal tradition. Additionally, they will learn proven practices that can help reduce obesity in children and experience wholesome activities the entire family can enjoy. Samples of tasty, nutritious halal treats will also be on hand.

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“We are excited to sponsor community programs that demonstrate how to reduce risk of cancer through diet,” said Padovani. “It is estimated that excess body weights contributes to 14-20 percent of all cancer mortality. Today, we are facing an obesity epidemic. Two-thirds of adults and 16 percent of children are overweight or obese. How-to programs such as these increase the community’s awareness about the value of eating fruits, vegetables and whole grains, illustrate the hidden “costs” of favorite snack foods and show parents concrete steps they can take to prevent obesity in their children."


For more information about this FREE program and to reserve a space contact Charlene.padovani@cancer.org or call 847-368-1172.

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