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Santa Monica College Community Education Offers Healthy, Plant-Based Eating Class

Posted Jan. 22, 2014, 9:34 am

Mitch James / Mirror Contributor

Is it hype or is there scientific evidence that supports a plant-based diet? How do you maintain proper nutrition eating only plants? Where do you get your protein? How do you prepare vegan meals that are flavorful and satisfying?

Santa Monica-based Natural Foods Chef Christine Oppenheim answers these questions and more with her new five-week course “Intro to Healthy Eating” at Santa Monica College Community Education, beginning Saturday, March 1.

The class focuses on healthy eating fundamentals through a whole-food, plant-based diet. 

A plant-based diet can help improve health and digestion, increase energy, encourage better sleep, reduce cravings, help with weight loss, and extend life expectancy.

Course topics include: eating with the season; meeting protein needs with plant-based sources; making healthy choices when cooking and dining out; using healthy fats, superfoods, and probiotics; understanding gluten sensitivity and alternatives to common food allergies.

Chef Christine also teaches how to shop for the best food with class culminating in a visit to a local natural foods store to see the foods that have been discussed.

It’s not too late to change your eating habits or your cabinets. Learn how to start living a plant-based life. Classes are Saturdays from 11 am to 1 pm, March 1-March 29.

To register, call Santa Monica College at 310.434.3400, or go online at commed.smc.edu.