The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program is a free program for Tennessee families provided by University of Tennessee Extension’s Family and Consumer Sciences Department. EFNEP can show you new ways to prepare healthy foods for your family as well as how to handle foods safely and spend your food dollars wisely.
EFNEP is offered in a series of sessions- the more sessions you attend, the more you can learn. Most of the sessions are taught in groups, but you can choose to spend some individual time with the EFNEP program assistant.
What I will learn ? You will learn how to Choose the healthiest foods for you and your family.
- Prepare low cost meals and snacks that taste good.
- Determine how much food you need based on your age and level of activity.
- Read your food level.
- Get your children to eat, but not too much.
- Plan meals and shop with a limited budget.
- Avoid getting sick for food.
- Include physical activity in your daily routine.
From Dietary Guidelines for Americans , 2005 If you want to feel better today and stay healthier for tomorrow follow this advice. Make smart choices from each food group. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low- fat milk and milk products along with lean meats , poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts. Choose foods low in saturated fats, trans fat, cholesterol, salt (sodium), and added sugars.
- Find your balance between food and physical activity. Be physically active for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
- Get the nutrition out of your calories. The right number of calories for you to eat each day depends on your age, activity level, and whether you’re trying to gain, maintain or lose weight. Choose to eat healthy foods rather than use your calories on a few high-calorie foods or beverages.
Contact: Tamera Adjei, Extension Agent
Programming includes free Nutrition Education, cooking classes, and parenting for pregnant and nursing mothers, children grades 3-12, and families with the responsibility of feeding children that qualify for any public assistance. Other programs available are Nutrition for the school classroom and after school cooking classes. We have parent and child classes for a fun family learning atmosphere. For adult programming contact Schelese Ogburn, Community Nutrition Educator for Adults.
How do I sign up for EFNEP? IT’S EASY !!! Contact the UT Montgomery County Extension office or the state EFNEP office for more information.
