MAKING AN IMPACT

Since 2017, the Osher Center for Integrative Health (OCIH) and Common Threads (CT) have partnered to deliver the Cooking Up Health (CUH) elective. Since its pilot, this innovative program has been offered 20 times at Northwestern University and other partner institutions, engaging 256 medical students, residents, and faculty, as well as 540 Chicago Public School students.

​

Post-course surveys consistently show that participants rate their culinary skills and confidence in advising patients on nutrition highly. Medical students report significant confidence in various patient care areas, including personalizing lifestyle recommendations, referring patients to community resources, and collaborating on dietary plans. Additionally, students demonstrated increased self-confidence in their own cooking abilities.

​

Over the years, we have presented our curriculum and outcomes at numerous academic conferences and published findings based on our data. In response to demand, we have hosted two Train-the-Trainer workshops, educating faculty from 14 institutions across the U.S. on how to implement the Cooking Up Health curriculum. In addition, Common Threads has adapted the CUH-Northwestern Resident program to establish CUH Miami, which educates pediatric and family health professionals on nutrition and culinary medicine, with a focus on community health.

 

By disseminating this program, we aim to improve the nutrition competence of future healthcare providers, support the wellness of students during their rigorous training, and enhance the health of children and families in surrounding communities. To further expand these efforts, we have co-authored multiple grant proposals to secure ongoing funding for the growth of our partnership.​ 

​

Common Threads was also included in the 2024 White House's Challenge to End Hunger and Build Healthy Communities, emphasizing their commitment and dedication to educating children, families and healthcare experts about the importance of nutrition and healthy eating habits, as well as finding ways to increase access to healthy foods in underserved communities. 

​

Together we remain committed to ensuring that Cooking Up Health continues to evolve, making it relevant, impactful, and accessible to all.