USA Health is gearing up to restart its popular cooking classes at the teaching kitchens located at University Commons in Mobile and the Mapp Family Campus in Fairhope, welcoming participants of all backgrounds to learn about plant-forward diets and culinary medicine.

Led by Dr. Robert Israel, who spearheads the USA Health Integrative Health and Wellness program, the classes will explore the benefits of a plant-forward diet, which emphasizes plant-based foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds and legumes, while still allowing for moderate meat consumption. Dr. Israel will discuss how these dietary choices can contribute to preventing and managing various health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, obesity, diabetes and certain cancers.

Classes are limited to 12 participants at University Commons and 22 at Mapp Family Campus, with each session costing $30. Interested individuals can register online at www.usahealthsystem.com/specialties/integrative.

The schedule of upcoming classes has been included below for those interested.

USA Health Mapp Family Campus:

Located at 21950 AL-181 in Fairhope.

• July 9, 10-11:30 a.m.
• July 19, 2-3:30 p.m. (For adults and kids ages 6 and up)
• July 23, 10-11:30 a.m.
• August 2, 10-11:30 a.m.
• August 16, 10-11:30 a.m.

USA Health University Commons:

Located at 75 S University Blvd Suite 6500 in Mobile.

• July 17, 5-6:30 p.m.
• July 31, 12-1:30 p.m.
• August 6, 5-6:30 p.m.
• August 15, 5-6:30 p.m.

In addition to these classes for individuals, those interested in scheduling a cooking class for their group or organization can request a class on USA Health's website.

Funding for these educational opportunities comes from memorial donations and fundraising events organized by the USA Health community, such as silent art auctions and book sales.

The Integrative Health and Wellness Program at USA Health aims to promote overall wellness through evidence-based nutrition, culinary medicine and personalized wellness programs. These initiatives not only educate the public but also train medical and nursing students and healthcare providers on integrating healthy lifestyle practices into patient care.

For more information about upcoming classes and how to participate, visit the USA Health website at www.usahealthsystem.com/specialties/integrative.