USING FOOD AS MEDICINE

Join us on an evidence-based journey towards a Whole Food Plant-Based Lifestyle!

In today's world the leading causes of disease are "Lifestyle" related. At the top of the list is poor nutrition. With our Food Rx: Using Food as Medicine classes you will learn the current evidence-based science of how food can prevent and reverse chronic diseases.

Our classes are designed by physicians, diabetes educators, registered dietitians and professional chefs to offer an easy-to-follow dietary approach based on scientific research.

Clinical and population studies show that a low-fat, plant-based diet is effective at improving blood glucose levels, promoting weight loss, reducing cholesterol and lowering the risk of diabetes and other chronic diseases.

 

Learn How to Prevent:

Heart Disease

Diabetes

Cancer

Gastrointestinal Disturbances

and more...

8 WEEK CLASS SCHEDULE

Food Rx

Class 1 Power of Your Plate

Class 2 Foods for a Healthy Heart

Class 3 How Foods Fight Diabetes

Class 4 How Foods Fight Cancer

Class 5 Designing a Diet for Maximum Weight Control

Class 6 Digestive Health

Class 7 Power Foods for the Brain

Class 8 Making it Work for You

Classes are FREE!

What to Expect:

food programs

Meal planning and practical cooking skills

Learn to make healthy choices

Cooking demonstration with tasty and easy-to-prepare recipes

Resources and support for new healthy changes

Food samples of the recipes prepared in class

 

Winter 2026 Session:

This 8-week class begins January 13. Classes are held Tuesdays from 5:30 - 6:30 pm.

  • January 13, 20, 27
  • February 3, 10, 17, 24
  • March 3

At: Parkridge Hospital Diagnostic Center. 2205 McCallie Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37404

Taught By: Chrissie Smith, BS RN & licensed Food for Life instructor with the support of Natalie Owsley, PhD, CPNP, FNP-BC, licensed Food For Life instructor as well as student interns from UTC's college of nursing.

REGISTER

 

If you want more info, please contact Paula Irwin at: pirwin@ymcachattanooga.org

 

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Increase energy, decrease stress, prevent illness, maintain a healthy weight, find personal balance, and enjoy quality time with family and friends... at the Y! We combine spirit, mind, and body in an integrated approach to well-being that goes beyond just fitness.

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Our Mission: to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. 

At the YMCA, we believe in working together to achieve an environment that is welcoming for all individuals regardless of age, religion, ability, gender or socioeconomic status. To achieve our mission of empowering all people, the Y is committed to providing a space that embodies our values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.