Chef Jessica teaching at UF and Shands Jacksonville
The Florida Department of Health, Office of Vital Statistics revealed in 2007 that the urban core of Jacksonville has an alarmingly high infant mortality rate: 15.04 per 1,000 live births. This is more than double the national average and ranks the risk on par with many far less developed nations. Though there are many factors that contribute to this statistic, one of the most obvious (and easiest to treat) is the nutrition of expectant and new mothers.
A family enjoying the recipes
Second Harvest North Florida, in conjunction with the Walmart Foundation and UF & Shands Jacksonville has launched the Nutrition for Mothers and Nourishment for Babies Healthy Food Program. With this campaign they distribute bags of healthy food to mothers visiting the OB clinic at Shands in the heart of Jacksonville’s urban core. In addition to the food, they also receive nutrition advice, healthy recipes, and once a quarter Chef Jessica is on site to answer questions, demonstrate, and share samples of featured foods. On Wednesday, Feburary 9th the focus also included “Heart Health” and we hope you will enjoy the following featured recipes, whether you are expectant or not.
Here in the South, greens tend to be overcooked with a ton of added fat. It is quite simple to cook the greens quickly by sautéing instead. By using just a little olive oil (instead of a fatty piece of pork) you will have a much heart-healthier side dish. You can use the same technique to cook other greens including kale, cabbage, mustard greens, or anything similar.
Sautéed Collard Greens
10 minutes
Number of servings: 6
Per Serving 19 calories
Fat 1 g
Carbs 2 g
Protein 1 g
Ingredients
Directions
Clean collards by placing in sink of water and rinsing well (it can be very sandy so you may need to rinse, drain, and repeat with a fresh sink of water). Carefully cut the tough stalks from the center of each leaf. Coarsely chop. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat, add garlic and toast (do not allow it to brown or it will be bitter); add collards and sauté until tender. Season to taste and serve.
RELATED LINKS:
Vegetable Stir Fry
Link to study quoted: The Infant Mortality Report
