Walhalla, S.C. (WSPA) – It can be hard to eat healthy without access to nutritious food in rural communities. Clemson Rural Health is they trying to fix this problem.
7News went to the Clemson Health Clinic in Walhalla to work with Registered Dietitian Abby Morningstar to learn about easy, healthy recipes and preventative care.
A lack of reliable transportation or full-service grocery stores can make it hard for those in rural areas to maintain a healthy diet.
This leads to more instances of obesity and diabetes – the eighth leading cause of death in South Carolina.
Clemson University is working with rural residents to use medical visits and free food prescription programs, gym memberships, and educational programming to help.
With a Veggie Rx program, every month, participants receive 2 boxes of fresh, local, seasonal produce, recipe cards and cooking demos to build confidence in the kitchen and well as 1:1 dietitian sessions
Morningstar said participants report weight loss, lower BMI, and reduced A1C levels by almost a third – proof that nutrition education paired with clinical care makes a meaningful impact
Click here to see MyChart availability with dietitians
Here’s the Top 10 Summer Nutrition Tips from a Registered Dietitian:
1. Hydrate Smartly Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Add slices of citrus, cucumber, or mint for a refreshing twist.
2. Eat Water-Rich Foods Snack on watermelon, cucumbers, strawberries, and tomatoes to stay hydrated and cool.
3. Don’t Skip Meals Hot weather can suppress appetite, but skipping meals can lead to fatigue. Opt for lighter, more frequent meals.
4. Grill the Healthy Way Choose lean proteins like chicken, fish, or plant-based options. Marinate to boost flavor and reduce harmful compounds.
5. Protect Your Skin with Food Foods rich in antioxidants—like berries, leafy greens, and carrots—can help protect your skin from sun damage.
6. Watch the Sugary Drinks Limit sodas and sweet teas. Try sparkling water or homemade iced herbal teas instead.
7. Practice Safe Food Handling Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot—especially at picnics and BBQs—to avoid foodborne illness.
8. Balance Your Plate Fill half your plate with fruits and veggies, even at summer cookouts. Think grilled veggies, corn on the cob, or fruit salad.
9. Cool Down with Healthy Treats Make frozen yogurt pops, smoothie bowls, or fruit sorbets instead of ice cream every time.
10. Listen to Your Body Eat when you’re hungry, stop when you’re full, and don’t forget to enjoy your food mindfully.
