UnityPoint Health will offer its free, interactive cooking series, “Cooking with Heart,” beginning in January 2026. It’s aimed at helping people achieve their wellness goals through nutrition.
The four-week classes are led by UnityPoint Health nutrition experts. They focus on simple, affordable, and heart-healthy changes in the kitchen.
Two different classes will be offered. They are “Cooking with Heart Foundational” and “Cooking with Heart for Cancer.”
Registration is required for in-person classes. They are free thanks to donors Trinity Health Foundation and Cancer Support Community Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club. To register, visit unitypoint.org/cookingwithheart.
Class schedule:
- Cooking with Heart for Cancer: Starts Jan. 5, then meets weekly from 10-11:30 a.m., Mondays.
- Cooking with Heart Foundational: Starts Jan. 8, then meets weekly from 10-11:30 a.m., Thursdays.
Cooking with Heart Foundational is designed for anyone interested in transitioning to a more plant-focused diet. It offers easy, flavorful recipes and essential cooking skills.
The hands-on class for survivors, caregivers, and loved ones, emphasizes how nutrition can reduce the risk of cancer or recurrence through the preparation of eight or more recipes.
“We’re proud to offer a program that empowers people to take control of their health through food,” said Marli Apt, community engagement manager at UnityPoint Health – Trinity. “Participants gain confidence in the kitchen, learn new skills and walk away with habits that can truly improve their overall well-being.”
Kathy Pulley, director of cardiology services at UnityPoint Health – Trinity Heart Center, noted the program’s positive impact. “Over the past five years, we’ve seen Cooking with Heart transform lives. Participants are lowering their blood pressure, improving cholesterol, managing weight and even reversing early signs of chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease.”
Classes are taught at the Cardiac Nutrition Center at Trinity Heart Center, 2701 17th St., Rock Island.
