From Yucky to Yummy

Healthy eating doesn’t have to mean bad-tasting food. And consuming the right edibles isn’t about going on a diet, it’s about making a few lifestyle changes.

Those are some of the simple, positive messages that local senior citizens are often hearing from care providers at health education workshops – gatherings that provide practical information about making smart choices when it comes to putting good-for-you food on the plate.

“We believe in the prevention of disease and keeping you healthy,” said Dr. Joan Rosenburg, a family practice physician for Centers for Family Medicine in Seal Beach, during a recent workshop that drew 100-plus attendees to the Old Ranch Country Club in that city.

Healthy food choices – such as lean meats, whole grains and fiber-rich vegetables – can help make those who are elderly feel and look better, said Rosenburg, and get them moving toward good health. She offered the audience various suggestions such as avoiding “yo-yo” weight loss and gain and staying away from tasty but unhealthy fare like cake and soda – especially for those who are diabetic or borderline diabetic.

“Healthy eating can also be delicious,” she said. “You have to decide what’s best for you.”

To help with the delicious aspect of the workshop, the event featured Tiffany Derry, a reality TV chef and entrepreneur best known as a fan-favorite on Bravo TV’s “Top Chef” and a Novo Nordisk Diabetes Educator.

She presented a healthy cooking demonstration and shared recipes for low-carb, full-flavor dishes. “It doesn’t have to be complicated,” said Derry about cooking with nutrition in mind.

Derry, who specializes in modern Southern cuisine, assembled for the audience a colorful strawberry-and-spinach salad, making her own vinaigrette right on the spot. She then worked over a portable range to create a smoked turkey chili verde, which, in addition to several healthy ingredients, featured touches of cumin spice and chipotle peppers. The key to tastiness, she said, is to look for ways to add color and flavors to any dish you are preparing.

“Whatever you have around the house, use it,” said Derry about being practical when it comes to creating savory recipes, such as adding splashes of lemon or other citrus fruits that create acidic tastes similar to those of salt.

The sensuous aroma of her chili getting cooked up had the audience leaning forward with anticipation. “Can I come live with you?,” joked an audience member after Derry described the wonderful low-carb treats she makes for family members at her Texas household.

At the end of the demonstration, the entire audience was given samples of the salad and chili. The verdict: delicious with just the right kind of textures and bite. Attendees also liked how the gathering offered a balance of serious diabetes education and kitchen-oriented entertainment.

Sandra Haines, 60, of Long Beach, said she values programs about disease prevention and wellness. “I believe you have to cook with love,” she exclaimed.

For others, like Olga Llano, a 67-year-old from Garden Grove, there was appreciation for the detailed information and specific explanations that were presented, especially about the value of those veggies. “I am inspired,” she said, “to be more careful with cooking.”