© 2025 WVIK
Listen at 90.3 FM and 98.3 FM in the Quad Cities, 95.9 FM in Dubuque, or on the WVIK app!
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Connecting with Food

Ways To Subscribe

Wellness Wake Up Call

Connecting with Food

Did you know the average meal travels over 1,500 miles before it reaches your plate? That’s the equivalent of driving from Chicago to Miami! As part of National Nutrition Month, we’re encouraging you to connect with your food and its journey to your table.

Exploring where your food comes from can help you make healthier and more sustainable food choices. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

• Start small by visiting your local farmers' market. Many markets offer fresh, seasonal produce and locally crafted items that support nearby farms and businesses. Check out the Illinois Extension Find Food Illinois map to find local farmers' markets near you.

• If you want to go a step further, grow something yourself! Even a small pot of herbs like basil, parsley, or mint on your windowsill can be a rewarding way to connect with your food. Not only will it taste fresh, but you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you grew it yourself.

This week, try to explore the origins of your next meal. Buy one local item, ask where your produce comes from, or plant something small at home. Taking one step toward connecting with your food can lead to a healthier, more mindful lifestyle.

Thank you for listening! I hope you have a happy and healthy day ahead. The content for this episode was provided by Rachel Mannen, Nutrition and Wellness Educator, for University of Illinois Extension.

Resources

https://extension.illinois.edu/food/find-food-illinois

Kristin Bogdonas believes that everyone deserves access to fresh, affordable food and is committed to helping people improve their health literacy. In this digital age it can be difficult to decipher what nutrition information is accurate and what is hype. Connecting people with factual information and evidenced-based programs will help people build the skills and attain the knowledge necessary for positive behavior change. Although nutrition is important for a long and healthy life, one should not overlook the other dimensions of health required for overall wellbeing; physical, mental, emotional, vocational, spiritual, environmental and social. Each dimension impacting the next.