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Long life expectancy can be achieved by eating the right foods. Health experts recommend eating at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day, basing meals on higher fibre starchy foods like potatoes and rice, eating some dairy or dairy alternatives and protein, choosing unsaturated oils and spreads and eating them in small amounts, and drinking plenty of fluids.

In one study, a vegan diet helped participants lose 9.3lbs more than a control diet over an 18-week study period.

The participants on the vegan diet lost more weight than those who followed calorie-restricted diets, even when the vegan groups were allowed to eat until they felt full.

A vegan diet has also been shown to lower blood sugar levels - which can also cause life-threatening complications.

studies have shown vegans tend to have lower blood sugar levels, higher insulin sensitivity and up to 50 to 78 percent lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

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One study found 43 percent of its participants who followed a vegan diet were able to reduce their dosage of blood-sugar-lowering medication, compared to only 26 percent in a group that followed an ADA-recommended diet.

Vegan diets have also been linked to lower risk of heart disease.

Eating fresh fruits, vegetables, legumes and fibre has been linked to a decreased risk of developing heart disease, and all of these foods are key components of a vegan diet.

High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease, but observational studies have compared vegans to vegetarians and the general population and found vegans may benefit from up to 75 percent lower risk of developing high blood pressure.

Finally, while there is no cure for cancer, a vegan diet may protect against certain types of the disease.

According to the World Health Organization, around one third of all cancers can be prevented by factors people can control, such as diet.

Eating legumes regularly has been found to reduce the risk of bowel cancer by about 9 to 18 percent.

Research has also suggested eating at least seven portions of fresh fruits and vegetables per day may lower the risk of people dying from cancer by up to 15 percent.

Original post:
How to live longer: Why following this diet could increase your life expectancy - Express

Weight loss friendly low-carb recipes.

Highlights

In our fast-paced life, having equilibrium of mind and body can be littledifficult.To achieve a perfect balance between healthy body and mind, one must closely watchtheir diet, and include foods thar arenutritionally rich. If you are looking to lose some weight, a diet low on carbohydrates may work well. And what better than starting your day with a low-carb meal? Varioushealthexperts and nutritionists emphasise on the fact thatbreakfast is one of the most important meals of the day,and we can't agree more. A healthy, wholesome breakfast gives us the energy to start the day and satiate us well till the next meal. A high-protein breakfast can bulk up our body till the next meal, keeping unwanted hunger pangs at bay. Pair it withlow-carbfoodsand you are good to go.

(Also Read:5 Best Low Carb Recipes | Easy Low Carb Recipes)

One of the best sources of meat protein, chicken is hailed for its multiple benefits. Minced chicken salad has a host of veggies cooked and tossed with chicken mince along with spices and a tantalising sauce, served in tarts. This is an easy and delicious high-protein recipe, low on carbs that is perfect to start your day with.

A porridge that is apt for those aiming for weight loss. Oats contain soluble fibres that break down the food faster, leading to their easy digestion. In this process, extra calories in the body are lost resulting, in loss of weight. Combined with high-protein chicken, this is exactly what one needs to maintain the balance of nutrients.

High on protein, low on carb, this is perfectfor those looking for something both tasty and healthy.

Quintessential breakfast food, eggs are one of the common and easily available source of protein. Here is a super quick low-carb breakfast recipe that would fill your plate and appetite with protein for a long time and help lose some extra kilos by keeping away untimely hunger pangs.

A perfect American-style egg recipe to make your plain old breakfast toast fun.

Just about five minutes and three basic ingredients would give you this stellar, wholesome smoothie. Apple chia seeds smoothie has the goodness of chia seeds along with apple which is high in fibre, boosting metabolic levels. This smoothie is going to keep you full for long.

Whip up this cold and delicious smoothie for a powerful start to the day.

Yes, we know a lot of us might cringe at the thought of sauted broccoli but you'll be surprised at how delicious this dish can be. With the light flavours garlic and butter along with the crunch of toasted almonds, you'll be boasting broccoli after having this for breakfast.

Packed with the nutrition of spinach and egg, this omelette recipe comes with the cheesy goodness off mozzarella. A super easy and quick breakfast recipe, this cheese omelette can be a great addition to your low-carb diet.

Perfect breakfast option that would leave you asking for more.

Try these low-carb breakfast recipes for weight loss at home and let us know how you liked it in the comments section below.

About Aanchal MathurAanchal doesn't share food. A cake in her vicinity is sure to disappear in a record time of 10 seconds. Besides loading up on sugar, she loves bingeing on FRIENDS with a plate of momos. Most likely to find her soulmate on a food app.

Read more:
Weight Loss Diet: Try These 6 Low-Carb Breakfast Recipes For Weight Loss - NDTV Food

High-Protein Diet: Mong dal khichdi is the ultimate comfort food you can simply not resist.

Highlights

The umpteen benefits of dal in Indian cuisine are extremely popular around the world. There are a host of dals available with different names, colours and flavours but there's one common thing amongst them all; the nutrients. Dals are rich in multiple nutrients such as fibre and antioxidants. But more than anything, they are a powerhouse of protein. Proteins are known for being the building blocks of our body since they help build muscle and fuel the body with optimum energy. Vegetarians and vegans who constantly look for protein-rich options, dals make for a great meal for them.

Moong dal is one of the most common dals in Indian household kitchens. It is light, delicious and easily blends with other foods to create some of the most amazing dishes. Moong dal is a great source of plant-based protein along with antioxidants. And you'll be surprised to know that moong dal may also help facilitate weight loss. The protein in it helps boost digestion, since it takes a while to digest it would eventually make you feel full and satiated for long and keep unwanted cravings at bay. Eating in controlled portions may thus enable healthy weight loss. For all those looking for a comforting, light yet delicious way to add moong dal to their diet, we've got you covered.

(Also Read:High-Protein Diet: Add Spinach To Your Moong Dal And Make It Healthier (Watch Recipe Video))

Moong dal khichdi is a wholesome dish that is quick, easy and extremely comforting to relish on days when you don't want to indulge in anything heavy or greasy. In this moong dal khichdi recipe, moong dal and rice are soaked in water for a while till soft. The water is later drained and the mixture is cooked in ghee with a host of spices like turmeric, hing, cumin seeds, coriander and salt. It is then pressure-cooked till thick and dense. You can serve the piping hot moong dal khichdi with a spoonful of ghee on top along with some curd on the side.

Here's the recipe of delicious moong dal khichdi from NDTV Food's YouTube channel. For more such amazing recipes, kitchen hacks and trivia, subscribe to NDTV Food's YouTube channel.

About Aanchal MathurAanchal doesn't share food. A cake in her vicinity is sure to disappear in a record time of 10 seconds. Besides loading up on sugar, she loves bingeing on FRIENDS with a plate of momos. Most likely to find her soulmate on a food app.

Read more from the original source:
High-Protein Diet: This Moong Dal Khichdi Can Be Your Go-To Comfort Food This Winter Season - NDTV Food

A HEALTHY diet is all about balance.

And what better way to balance your plate than by including all the colours of the rainbow?

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A new survey has found Brits eat 25 per cent green food, 14 per cent red and nine per cent beige.

After quizzing 2,000 adults, they found as well as carbs like pasta, potatoes and bread, we love to chow down on leafy greens, tomatoes and peppers too.

And yellow foods like sweetcorn and orange carrots, as well as purple aubergines are also on the list.

A spokesman for Birds Eye, which commissioned the study, said: Its been widely understood for decades that a healthy diet is one with a good balance, with many trying to follow the five-a-day rule when it comes to fruit and veg.

A great way of ensuring you get all the nutrients you need is to fill your plate with as much veg as possible, and eat in full colour.

While dark green veg is healthy, eating nothing but broccoli or peas wouldnt give you all the nutrition you need - so its great to mix it up with bright yellow sweetcorn, orange carrots, golden chicken and juicy red tomatoes.

Whether its fresh or frozen, eating vegetables of all colours mean you are then consuming a wide range of nutrients and vitamins.

A video created by Birds Eye has also shown how people are drawn to brighter colours of food.

Plates containing purple, beige and white, red and orange, green, and yellow foods were laid out on a table and six participants were asked to select the dish they thought looked the most attractive to eat.

All chose the red and orange plate of food as their favourite, along with the other vibrant colours of purple and green.

The study also found six in 10 adults now make a conscious effort to have a diet filled with varied colours, although women make more of an effort than men (68 per cent compared to 52 per cent).

Just under half believe they eat just the right amount of green foods, although three in 10 think they could do with more.

Around 45 per cent have even made a conscious effort to eat more food of a certain colour, with green among the most popular.

Colour isnt the only thing that puts Brits off a food though, with 58 per cent skipping something on their plate because of the smell.

Another four in 10 have passed over eating something because they werent convinced by its texture.

But women are more likely to turn their nose up at a food because of its smell, texture or how it looks than men are.

It also emerged that on an average day, Brits eat five different colours of food in total, although a fifth have seven or more.

More than 15 per cent even suggest eating a certain colour food can boost their mood.

Half say a plate with lots of bright colours is more appetising, while a picky 23 per cent only like it if there is an even number of colours on their plate.

But the research, carried out for Birds Eye via OnePoll, found a staggering 80 per cent associate the colour green with healthy food.

And men are more likely to consider beige, black, white or brown food as being healthy than women.

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A spokesman for Birds Eye added: Having a healthy, balanced diet means eating a variety of foods to ensure getting all the necessary nutrients.

"Making a meal healthier is as easy as adding more colours to your plate.

"Frozen vegetables are a great way to have nutritious vegetables readily available all year round to eat in full colour.

For the full results please go to Birds Eye's website here.

Link:
Healthiest diets are all the colours of the rainbow, experts say - The Sun

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On Thanksgiving, people may forgo breakfast or lunch to save room for a feast in the evening. But this is not the best strategy to avoid packing on the pounds this holiday season, according to one nutritionist.

"It's a big mistake to fast before a big meal at a party, or at Thanksgiving dinner," said Katherine Tallmadge, a registered dietitian and op-ed contributor to LiveScience.

When people skip meals, they end up feeling so hungry by dinnertime that they overeat, Tallmadge said.

"You're ravenous, and you just eat like crazy. You're completely irrational," she said.

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To avoid this scenario, Tallmadge recommends eating a regular breakfast and lunch on Thanksgiving, at the same time you normally would eat these meals. This Thanksgiving, Tallmadge said she will eat her regular breakfast of oatmeal with fruit and nuts.

It's true that at Thanksgiving dinner, most people will eat more than they would on a normal day, Tallmadge said. But by eating a regular breakfast and lunch, you'll likely eat fewer calories overall than you would if you skipped the meals, she said.

Another tip to avoid eating too much on Thanksgiving is to pick your three favorite, high-calorie foods at the dinner table, and indulge in only those, along with vegetable side dishes, Tallmadge said.

Variety can also make it easy to overeat. For instance, if there are three pies for dessert, you might be tempted to take a slice of each, but you should stick with one, Tallmadge said.

And while it's OK to indulge a bit on Thanksgiving, you shouldn't continue this pattern of eating regularly, Tallmadge said.

Even though you'll likely have leftovers, be careful not to eat overly large meals for another week, she said.

"Splurge on Thanksgiving Day, but get back to normal, healthy eating immediately," Tallmadge said.

Read the original:
The 1 'big' diet mistake many people make on Thanksgiving - msnNOW

Ever since Cassie Randolph won Colton Underwoods season of The Bachelor, fans have been enamored of her beauty secrets.

As many Bachelor stars go on to do, Randolph now makes a habit of linking her outfits in Instagram photos and sharing skin tips (mostly via advertisements) in her stories. But shes never really been explicit about her entire beauty/health routine.

In a recent Instagram Q&A the reality star did on her stories, she shared some of her tips and tricks.

What skincare products do you use? How is your skin so clear! asked one fan.

Hate myself, because Ive been meaning to do a skincare video for so long now like Ive promised a million times. Its hard because its always changing as I try new products, she responded.

But Randolph shared a few staples that dont ever change: RetinA @ night, sunscreen everyday, vitamin C serum, AHA or BHA, moisturizer.

Another fan asked Randolph if she has permanent makeup on your lips because theyre always so red.

Ive always had really red lips, she responded, including a baby photo of herself with a strikingly red pout. But I know a couple people who have done the permanent lip liner & love it!

Randolph speaks a lot about how its important to her to maintain a healthy lifestyle. She admitted in her recent Q&A that her diets been inconsistent lately since shes been traveling so much, but that she tries to eat as clean as possible.

Do you stick to a certain diet/workout routine? asked another fan.

gonna be honest, with everything going on and all the traveling this past year, Ive been super inconsistent with diet/exercise. I try to eat as clean as possible and listen to my body, Randolph responded. I actually have a lot of stomach issues (very sensitive). So I have always had to eat a lot of smaller meals/snack throughout the day instead of a lot at once.

As for working out, Randolph tries to be as active as possible.

A workout is worth it even if you only have 15 minutes! My fave is hot yoga, barre, and I love long walks! she shared. I find that I always am in a better mood on the days I make time to exercise.

Between school, friends, Underwood, her family, and work obligations, Randolph strives to create a healthy balance in her life.

Has it been tough balancing school and life in general? asked another Instagram user.

Yes! I feel like this past year has thrown a bunch of things my way that Ive really had to work at learning to balance. Schoolwork definitely makes it challenging. I pretty much bring it with me everywhere I go and use most of my free time to work on it! she responded.

But Randolph has learned its all about sticking to a schedule.

Id say that the key thing in relieving my stress is making a schedule for myself and sticking to it so that I allow time for all areas of my life, she wrote.

Read more: The Bachelor: Cassie Randolph Addresses The Beef Between Her, Caelynn Miller-Keyes And Hannah Bs Crew

Read the original here:
'The Bachelor': Cassie Randolph Reveals Her Skincare, Diet, and Workout Routine - Showbiz Cheat Sheet

Fish Nutrition: Fish is a low-fat, optimal quality protein, which is rich in health enhancing nutrients.

Highlights

Fish is touted as the healthiest of animal proteins for humans. Whether you are controlling your blood pressure, cholesterol or managing diabetes, fish can be your go-to protein from the animal kingdom and rightly so. Fish is a low-fat, optimal quality protein, which is rich in health enhancing nutrients. Eating fish at least twice a week is recommended by all leading health bodies for protection against heart diseases, stroke, diabetes, blood pressure and even for brain health. Fish has been a part of traditional Indian diets of the coastal regions for centuries. It is easy to source and cook and can be fried, boiled, baked or roasted. It packs great flavour along with health benefits.

Fish is a good source of protein with all nine amino acids present in it. Protein is required for almost every function of our body and is present in every cell. Having adequate protein ensures a healthy body, blood and immune system. Indian diets are particularly deficient in proteins except in areas where fish is easily available.

(Also Read:Weight Loss: Can Eating Fish Help You Shed Kilos In A Healthy Way?)

Unlike the other meats, fish is not high in saturated fats, and hence important for protecting us against non-communicable diseases. Since it is one of the richest sources of omega -3 fats, it helps offset the cholesterol risk. Omega -3 is one of the healthiest fats that protect us against heart diseases and stroke. It is also an essential fatty acid, which means that it is not manufactured in our body and we must get via our diet. It is associated with keeping the cholesterol levels down by lowering triglycerides and may also increase the good cholesterol or HDL. Omega -3 consists of Alpha-Linoleic Acid- ALA, Docosahexaenoic Acid- DHA, and Eicosapentaenoic Acid- EPA. Of these, DHA and EPA are the most important and that is why fish becomes an important part of a healthy diet. Omega-3 is also linked to improving immune function and decreasing inflammation in the body. People with arthritis and active lifestyles have found that consuming omega-3-rich foods help them manage pain and muscle fatigue better. Research has shown some benefits for depression, ADHD, Alzheimer's, dementia and diabetes as well. Salmon, sardines, mackerel, trout, herring, and tuna are few of the recommended options.

Vitamin D is found in fish and has been associated with good bone health. It also protects against Type-1 diabetes, and cancers of the breast, colon, prostrate and oesophagus, according to new scientific evidence. Another vitamin present in good quantity in fish is Vitamin B2 Riboflavin, which is essential for overall good health. It not only promotes growth, but also helps the body breakdown carbohydrates to release energy and optimises the use of oxygen in the body.

(Also Read:4 Vitamin D-Rich Drinks You Must Add To Your Diet To Avoid Vitamin D Deficiency)

In addition fish is a good source of a number of minerals that support health.

Fish is a healthy meat to eat and comes with amazing health benefits. Unlike red meats, it is not linked to ill health and is recommended as a part of a healthy diet to maintain good overall health.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed within this article are the personal opinions of the author. NDTV is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this article. All information is provided on an as-is basis. The information, facts or opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of NDTV and NDTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

Read more:
Nutrition In Fish: Here's Why You Should Include Fish In Your Diet - NDTV Food

Consuming dates in the morning can be an interesting way to start the day.

Highlights

Lazy and lethargic morning hours can turn out to be quite annoying. An energy booster that would help motivate us to get up and kick-start the day could come to great help. While most people resort to their hot cup of tea or coffee as their morning fix, there are other foods as well that can replace that daily dose of caffeine in a healthy way and still give the body that optimum energy to start the day.

One of the dry fruits that is creating a buzz in the world of health, dates are popular for their umpteen health benefits. Dates, especially dry dates, are a rich source of natural sugars (glucose and fructose), which makes for an instant energy booster. One can simply toss it in a jar of dry fruits and consume some of it every morning to help increase energy and stamina levels. They are also full of protein and fibre, which further makes it an excellent choice to include it in your breakfast meal. It would keep you full for a longer spell and keep untimely hunger pangs at bay. No wonder dates are an indispensable part of many different cuisines across the globe.

(Also Read:5 Best Dates Recipes | Easy Ways To Add Khajur To Your Diet)

Dates aren't just nutritionally-rich but also super delicious when added to certain dishes. You'll be surprised to know how versatile this humble fruit can be when it comes to culinary experiments in the kitchen. We bring to you some interesting ways to add dates to your morning meal.

A super quick, thick and rich shake with the goodness of dates, this milkshake is simply hard to resist. The natural sweetness of dates tossed with milk and crushed ice is just the perfect way to start your day.

A popular Christmas snack, bacon-wrapped stuffed dates is oozing with cream cheese and has the delish bacon wrapped around de-seeded dates, which is then baked to perfection. You can prepare these mouth-watering bite-sized rolls in just 30 minutes and have them on your way to work. This delight is sure to be loved by kids and adults, alike.

With these delectable dates recipe, you can include dates in your morning meals to start the day on a fresh and energetic note. Try them at home and let us know how you liked them in the comments section below.

About Aanchal MathurAanchal doesn't share food. A cake in her vicinity is sure to disappear in a record time of 10 seconds. Besides loading up on sugar, she loves bingeing on FRIENDS with a plate of momos. Most likely to find her soulmate on a food app.

Read this article:
Healthy Diet: Include Dates In Your Morning Meal To Start The Day On A Healthy Note - NDTV Food

Mixed martial arts and boxing champion Conor McGregor is one of the best-known and most successful fighters in the world.

He has had an incredible trajectory to worldwide fame, beginning his professional career in 2008. McGregor has received numerous honors for his success in the world of fighting and although his career has not been without controversy, fans love him for his dedication to the sport.

Still, that level of accomplishment doesnt come easily, and McGregor follows a strict diet and training regimen that is truly impressive.

Keep reading to learn about Conor McGregors diet, how he works out, and what he prefers to indulge in on his cheat days.

Although Conor McGregor is well known for his fitness, the truth is, he likes to go with the flow when it comes to his training routine. He has admitted that variety is the best way and that he doesnt stick to any one particular type of exercise in order to stay in tip-top shape. McGregor has talked about how he likes to mix things up by combining fitness classes, gym sessions, and lots of flexibility training.

There are a few signature exercises that McGregor likes to incorporate during the week, including leg swings, hip circles, push-ups, pull-ups, air squats, and the seated butterfly. Its clear that whatever he is doing, it is working, because McGregor is widely known as one of the fittest fighters in the industry.

As with his workout regimen, McGregor tries to incorporate a lot of variety into his meals. Still, that doesnt mean hes ordering takeout every night. McGregors diet focuses mainly on healthy carbohydrates and real food. McGregor doesnt follow a fad diet but simply sticks to good habits throughout the day in order to look and feel his best.

Although he is limited in the things that he eats, McGregor makes sure to always eat plenty, so that he stays full and focused for training.

McGregors breakfast includes plenty of healthy fats like eggs and avocados, while his lunches usually include lean proteins such as seared tuna, grilled fish, or chicken, paired with lots of vegetables and carbs such as sweet potato or squash.

Dinners for McGregor are also healthy and filling, and usually feature delicious roasted chicken with rice and even more vegetables. Conor McGregor also loves pasta, and while he rarely indulges in dishes such as fettuccine alfredo, he sometimes fills his plate with three-bean pasta and grilled shrimp.

McGregors chef also makes sure to fill up his fridge with fruit and nuts, so that the champion always has healthy snacking options available and isnt tempted to reach for candy or salty snacks.

Conor McGregor might have to stick to a healthy diet but that doesnt mean hes immune to delicious treats from time to time. McGregor has admitted to having cheat days and has said that he definitely has a sweet tooth.

In fact, McGregor loves cakes and coffee and has stated that those two things would cause him to on some weight out of fighting.

McGregor also loves to indulge in a beer from time to time. He actually has a partnership with the beer company Budweiser and has posted several images to his Instagram account over the years featuring the champion kicked back with a cold beer.

Its clear that even prize-winning fighters have to take days off in order to feel their best.

Visit link:
Conor McGregor Cheats on His Diet in the Best Way Possible - Showbiz Cheat Sheet

For nearly 30 years, this little-known nonprofit has been cooking and delivering medically tailored meals to sick, homebound people throughout Eastern Massachusetts, currently serving about 1,000 clients a day. And now spreading its wings after a $24 million expansion, with its founding concept of food is medicine gaining traction nationwide Community Servings is poised to start serving the entire state next month.

On a recent afternoon, the scent of cinnamon filled the room as Nick Bruning, a packaging manager who also has a special interest in dessert, slathered a thin piece of amber cake with cream cheese filling and curled it into Swiss pumpkin roll.

In another room redolent of roasted meat, a worker sliced a golden-skinned turkey breast; another slid a knife through a chunk of roasted ribeye. Elsewhere, a tray of pumpkin truffles coated in dark chocolate awaited packaging, and workers peeled the deep purple skin of eggplants about to be chopped and roasted.

Mission No. 1 is to make people want to eat the food were making, said executive chef Brian Hillmer, who has previously worked at such restaurants as Legal Sea Foods, Not Your Average Joes, and Tavern in the Square.

In addition to the turkey and ribeye, the Thanksgiving menu options include cranberry-apple braised chicken, roasted sirloin, spaghetti squash gratin, spiced citrus baked fish, and roasted vegetable risotto.

The clients live with conditions in which diet plays a role including diabetes, cancer, heart disease, HIV, and kidney disease and are unable to shop or cook for themselves. Most have multiple diagnoses. The average age is 53.

Community Servings provides each with two meals plus snacks for five days a week. The meals are free to patients, the vast majority of whom live below the poverty line.

The meal becomes almost like a prescription, said chief executive David B. Waters. If I said to you, Go to the store and make a meal that controls for glucose, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, and vitamin K, no matter who you are, youd probably find that impossible. For people without access to quality food or too sick to get off the couch, Waters said, the system sets you up to fail. Thats when you become that high-cost patient.

But food cant promote health if it goes in the trash instead of the stomach, and many sick people have no appetite.

Thats why the menu starts with the chef. Hillmer dreams up something delicious and then shows his plans to Valerie Machinist, director of nutrition services, who employs a computerized recipe analysis program to break down the nutrient content.

A back-and-forth ensues between the guardians of nutrition and taste. Swapping an ingredient here, reducing a portion there, they collaborate to devise meals that are appealing, nutritious, and medically appropriate.

For example, everyone who eats meat received Thanksgiving turkey, but only breast meat with a small piece of skin. The Swiss pumpkin roll was lightened with whipped egg whites and low-fat cream cheese in the frosting.

The menus address 15 medical diets. Kidney-disease patients have the most restrictions, needing to avoid whole grains, potatoes, beans, and legumes. Heart-disease patients get dishes with little sodium and saturated fat. People with diabetes must limit carbohydrates.

Menus take into account a weeks worth of meals, rather than individual dishes. To compensate for cake, there may be fewer carbohydrates in the other components, for example.

By nutritional necessity, the food doesnt contain as much salt as the American palate has come to expect. Hillmer said the dearth of salt is one complaint he cant address.

A few days before Thanksgiving, an assembly line of workers was packing the food, weighing each component before spooning it into the container, which they then sealed in plastic, labeled, and froze. (The agency can serve only people with refrigerators to store the food and microwaves or stoves to heat it.)

Community Servings has 60 employees, their efforts boosted by about 75 volunteers a day. Additionally, much of the food preparation is done by participants in a 12-week food service training program for people emerging from incarceration, addiction, homelessness, or other challenges.

The agency has its roots the AIDS epidemic and was founded in 1990 by the American Jewish Congress. At the time, with no treatment available, AIDS patients were dying of a wasting syndrome.

We became the only medicine, Waters said. We were trying to keep people we loved alive in hopes of a cure, in those early, scary years. A dozen similar groups sprang up across the country in the cities most affected by AIDS, but Community Servings is the only one of its kind in New England.

Though no cure ever came along, medications now enable most HIV and AIDS patients to live full lives, and in 2004 Community Servings expanded its mission to other sick people. Still, HIV patients make up a third of its clients.

In the ensuing years, Community Servings has sought to demonstrate that its charitable work also makes business sense, by partnering with food researcher Seth A. Berkowitz. He has published studies in major journals showing that Community Servings clients spend fewer health care dollars, use hospital emergency departments less frequently, and experience dramatically fewer hospital admissions.

Those findings caught the attention of health insurers and cleared the way for Community Servings to win contracts with managed care organizations. Such arrangements have boosted its resources beyond the federal grants and charitable donations on which it has relied.

In December the agency will expand beyond the 21 communities it now serves to reach the entire state, shipping its frozen meals by UPS to the farthest reaches of the Berkshires.

At our core, said chef Hillmer, we just want to feed our neighbors and make sure theyre healthy.

Felice J. Freyer can be reached at felice.freyer@globe.com. Follow her on Twitter @felicejfreyer

Continued here:
This Mass. nonprofit makes Thanksgiving feasts for people with dietary restrictions - The Boston Globe

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