Cooking classes help women in deprived areas improve heart health

The British Heart Foundation funded a series of cooking sessions in Doncaster, England, to help women aged 40 to 74 reduce their risk of cardiovascular issues.

The initiative, called Your Heart Your Move, targets participants in areas with high levels of deprivation. These women often face high rates of obesity and smoking, which can lead to a lower quality of life despite long life expectancies.

Amy Gallagher of Recipe 4 Change leads the 12-week course, which provides instruction on nutrition, exercise, and affordable meal preparation. The sessions take place in local settings like the Woodlands Community Library. Gallagher teaches participants how to cook healthy meals using low-cost ingredients, such as frozen fish and vegetables, while avoiding excessive salt and fat. The program also encourages participants to use spices and prepare bulk meals to freeze for later use.

Participants who were referred by their doctors report positive changes in their daily habits and physical health. Some women reported better nail health and more consistent exercise routines, while others reported making healthier food choices such as eating more nuts, seeds, and fruit. The program also fosters social connections, including a peer support group where participants motivate each other to take small, manageable steps toward better health.

The NHS primary care network manager, Hannah Popple, says the program aims to prevent heart attacks and strokes by educating women on healthy lifestyles now. The initiative will expand to new locations in Carcroft, Bentley, and Askern in the coming year.