Local restaurant teams up with hospital for healthy eating program

FoodBar in Cahaba Heights is teaming up with the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders for a healthy eating program called “Grow It, Eat It, Live It. ” The program is designed to help parents learn how to plan, plant and care for a vegetable and herb garden, and prepare healthy meals for the whole family.

"We are really excited about this program," said Dr. Avi Maden Swain, director of Children's Hospital's Hope and Cope Program. "It's great for the children and also for the caregivers to come and enjoy as well."

George McMillan, owner of FoodBar, led segments in March and May and will be doing a final one in June. Focusing on nutrition, taste and long-term benefits of healthy eating and living, McMillan and cancer experts at Children’s Hosptial have designed the following interactive program:

Part 1 – “Grow: Sowing the Seeds of Flavor”

• McMillan partnered with an farmer to discuss the process of growing food at home and layed out the beginning framework of the kitchen essentials for cooking at home.

Part 2 – “Eat: Quick Snack”

• McMillan offered ideas for a few quick power snacks using dehydrated fruits and veggies that provide a boost of energy and nutrition.

Part 3 – “Live: Enjoying Every Day”

• McMillan will demonstrate how to take herbs and veggies from the garden to everyday eating.

"It's an honor to participate in this program," McMillan said. “Teaching family members how to grow their own fruits and vegetables, and how to use the items in their everyday routine will help them receive the nutrients they need while also having fun.”