Griffin Health Offers Cardiopulmonary Wellness Cooking Demonstration Series

The Griffin Center for Healthy Living at Quarry Walk, 300 Oxford Rd., Oxford, is hosting a series of free cooking demonstrations throughout July and August to help individuals strengthen the heart and lung connection.

Held July 14, 28, and every Tuesday in August from 5-6:15 p.m. at the Center’s Teaching Kitchen, these cooking classes will explore the powerful connection between nutrition, breath, and cardiopulmonary wellness by highlighting hydrating summer produce, nitrate-rich vegetables, lean proteins, omega-3-rich foods, fiber-forward legumes, and flavor-building aromatics like garlic. Participants will learn how specific foods and cooking techniques can help reduce systemic inflammation, support healthy blood pressure and circulation, and promote a calmer, more relaxed approach to eating and living.

Summer Hydration, which discusses the importance of hydration for healthy blood volume, circulation, and easier breathing in summer heat, and features a demonstration of Herb Grilled Flank Steak with Watermelon & Feta Salad, will be July 14.

Omega-3s for Heart & Lung Function, which discusses omega-3 fatty acids and their role in reducing inflammation in blood vessels and airways, and features a demonstration of Garlic Crusted Salmon with Broccoli, Apple & Walnut Salad, will be July 28.

Nitrate-Rich Foods, which discusses dietary nitrates in beets and their role in widening blood vessels and improving oxygen delivery, and features a demonstration of Herb Chicken Breast and Roasted Beet & Quinoa Salad, will be Aug. 4.

Cruciferous & Aromatic Vegetables for Airway Health, which discusses the protective compounds for lung tissue found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, and features a demonstration of Thai Basil Vegetable Stir-Fry and Blackened Shrimp, will be Aug. 11.

Legumes & Fiber, which discusses how fiber-rich legumes support healthy cholesterol and blood pressure, and features a demonstration of Black Bean Soup, will be Aug. 18.

Antioxidants & Mindful Eating, which discusses several foods that help improve heart and lung heath and the role of relaxed, unhurried eating in supporting digestion and the nervous system, and features Spring Vegetable Frittata and Vanilla Bean Chia Pudding Parfait, will be Aug. 25.

These events are free, but seating is limited and reservations are required. Visit

www.griffinhealth.org/teaching-kitchen or contact the Griffin Center for Healthy Living Coordinator at 203-732-1369 to sign up.

Opened in 2020, the Griffin Center for Healthy Living is a unique facility in which Griffin Health partners with the community in wellness – offering education, guidance and assistance in preventing and managing chronic disease, and promoting overall well-being. The Center is part of Griffin’s mission to empower individuals to make choices that change their lifestyles for the better, and embodies Griffin’s goal to not only care for individuals when they are not well, but to build a meaningful relationship, guide, and coach them to maximize their quality of life. Visit griffinhealthyliving.org for more information about the Center's features and upcoming community events.