Healthy food for healthy living Published March 2, 2011 By Kate Blais 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The scent of garlic mixed with a touch of white cooking wine meandered through the halls of the Health and Wellness Center during a cooking demonstration class designed to encourage healthy living. As part of monthly cooking demonstrations, the HAWC hosted "Boosting Your Fiber," Feb. 24, welcoming anyone from the base community interested in broadening their culinary horizons and upping their nutrition. "A healthy lifestyle is a way of life which encompasses nutrition, physical activity and other healthy personal choices," said Alice Torres, HAWC dietitian and host. Ms. Torres, with help from Todd Amon, 95th Aerospace Medical Squadron information systems manager, conducted the class much like a televised cooking show, providing step-by-step instructions for an audience. "At home I experiment with different dishes," said Ms. Torres as she added ingredients to a white bean, arugula and chicken dish, the first fiber-filled dish featured in the demonstration. "Get creative with the foods you make, it's a learning process." She discussed substituting ingredients and altering serving sizes to make dishes work for the individual. For example, one could tailor a dish to combat adverse effects of certain health conditions such as high cholesterol. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, dietary fiber from vegetables, such as white beans used in the demonstration, helps reduce blood cholesterol levels and may lower risk of heart disease. "These classes are to simply demonstrate more healthful recipes, provide education on the health benefits and function of consuming more wholesome grains, fruits and vegetables," said Ms. Torres. "Eating healthy is one key component of a healthy lifestyle." For Kathleen Augustine, Air Force Flight Test Center financial management office, she looks forward to reaping the benefits of preparing healthy meals. "I'm just in a place where I want to make changes," said Ms. Augustine. "I believe that if I keep focusing on things that are better for me, it'll create a positive change in my life." According to Ms. Torres, preparing nutritious meals permeates into other personal choices. "The AF 'Fit to Fight' motto exemplifies the idea of incorporating a healthy lifestyle in all areas of personal choices," said Ms. Torres. "This ensures that all AF members are fit throughout life and are constantly maintaining the most vital pieces of equipment; one's mind and body." The HAWC offers cooking demonstration classes throughout the year. Upcoming classes include "Vegetarian Cuisine" on March 11 and "Women's Health" on March 25. "I'll be attending the upcoming classes, they're already in my calendar," said Ms. Augustine. "So many people don't use all of the benefits we have here at Edwards," she continued. "There's just so much." For information on upcoming classes and other healthy programs, contact the Health and Wellness Center at 661-275-4292.