San Antonio’s Metro Health is steering its efforts towards fostering healthier communities, seizing the occasion to commemorate Kids Eat Right Month with a robust focus on nutritional education and engagement.
Originating in 2014, Kids Eat Right Month stands as a beacon for promoting wholesome eating practices amongst families and the community at large. The initiative is driven by the intent to cultivate healthier lifestyle choices while nurturing physical activity, forming a holistic approach to well-being. Mayra Porras, a dietician affiliated with Metro Health’s WIC Program, underscores the significance of this campaign in fostering informed nutritional choices.
As a vital contributor to Metro Health’s WIC program, Porras has been instrumental in disseminating a repertoire of health-conscious recipes within the community. With a dedicated emphasis on balance, Porras encapsulates the essence of a wholesome diet, advocating that half of one’s plate should be dedicated to fruits and vegetables, while the remaining portions encompass grains, protein, and dairy, with an additional focus on integrating whole grains.
WIC, the esteemed program, extends a tapestry of complimentary nutrition, educational resources, and counseling throughout the year. Porras embraces a dynamic approach, where the culinary journey is transformed into a captivating experience for children.
Acknowledging the profound impact of involving children in food preparation, Porras underscores, “It’s very important to get the kids involved in the food preparation because they’ll be more inclined to try the foods that they prepared.” This strategy not only empowers children to embrace a diverse range of foods but also nurtures an early connection to culinary choices that resonate with health-conscious principles.
Continuing the festivities, Metro Health orchestrates a family-oriented event on Wednesday, inviting the community to partake in the celebration. Taking place at Papouli’s Greek Grill from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., the event promises a plethora of educational resources, promotional materials, and more, amplifying the reach of nutritional awareness within the community.
As the month unfolds, Metro Health’s resolute commitment to healthier living remains resplendent, steering the community towards a future imbued with wellness, vitality, and informed choices.