Real-life Recipes
Physicians Premier Offers Tips, Cookbook to Promote Community Health
By Amy Morgan
Physicians Premier Regional Marketing Director Jennifer Meachum, RDN, LD, is very familiar with the subject of wellness. She changed her life with a successful wellness journey. More than 20 years ago, Jennifer set a goal to lose weight that resulted in a loss of 100 pounds! That New Year’s resolution turned her life in a new direction, including leading to a career path as a dietitian.
Last year Physicians Premier enlisted Jennifer to draw upon her nutrition background to create a cookbook to inspire community members to take the first step toward wellness with healthy, easy-to-prepare recipes that help people make better menu choices.
“It’s a small thing we can do for the community that we hope will make a big impact,” she said.
Recipes address different health goals like carb control, bone strength and smart heart, as well as including some appealing to kids. She encourages parents to invite their children into the kitchen to learn new techniques and start the conversation about healthy eating. Her 12-year-old son gave his stamp of approval to the dishes he helped her test (and taste).
Drop by Physicians Premier, located west of Highway 281 on Highway 46 near the HEB Plus, to pick up your free copy of the cookbook. Or email marketing @mdpremier.com, and Jennifer will be happy to mail you one.
You, too, can follow Jennifer’s tips to begin a healthy journey.
1. Set small measurable goals. When you achieve a goal, set the next one and keep going. Before you know it, all the small goals, changes, and consistency will end up making a huge impact.
2. The average American diet is low in fiber. Fiber can not only help with weight loss and management but also with gut, immune and heart health. Aim for 25-35 grams of fiber daily from whole grains, nuts, legumes, beans, fruits, and vegetables.
3. Prepare more meals at home to drastically reduce your calories, fat, and sodium, especially if you flavor with fresh herbs and spices. Making your meals will help with portion control and also can save money. Grilling, broiling, air frying, and roasting add fewer calories.
4. Swap out high calorie drinks with water or unsweetened beverages. Tired of water? Add a wedge of lemon, orange slice, or sprig of mint for a flavor explosion.
5. Consider journaling everything you eat or drink. It really helps to reveal portion size and items of which you are eating too much or not enough. Try one of the many free apps you can add to right to your phone.
Physicians Premier allows patients to access the care they need when they need it, saving time, money, alleviating concern and allowing for a healthier patient and community. Find Jennifer, Dr. Terry and other Physicians Premier professionals at www.MDpremier.com.
