Mindful Menus Eating Program
How the Mediterranean Diet Can Help with Healthy Aging
The Mediterranean diet is a simple and healthy way of eating. It includes foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, olive oil, fish, and chicken. These foods give your body and brain the nutrients they need to stay strong as you age.
Foods in this diet-like leafy greens, berries, beans, and olive oil-help protect brain cells from damage. Eating this way may also support clearer thinking and better memory. Some studies show that people with Parkinson's who follow a Mediterranean-style diet may have slower progression of the disease over time.
This diet has been associated with improved blood sugar control and healthier cholesterol levels. Maintaining cardiovascular health supports adequate blood flow to the brain, which is important for maintaining cognitive resilience, motor function and everyday activities.
The Mediterranean diet is flexible, affodable, and can be adapted to different preferences and cultural eating patterns. It focuses on simple foods that are easy to find and easy to prepare. Overall, this eating pattern can help everyone feel their best, stay active, and support their overall well-being.
Mindful Menus
For questions or to RSVP email community@jaxhopeinc.org or call (808) 313-0966
For questions or to RSVP email community@jaxhopeinc.org or call (808) 313-0966
Mindful Menus
Join us to learn about healthy aging in the kitchen
Free Cooking Demonstration, Tasting, and Easy Recipes
As we age, good nutrition plays an important role in maintaining strength, energy, and overall quality of life. For individuals living with Parkinson’s disease— a progressive brain condition that affects movement and can also impact mood, sleep, and energy—eating well becomes especially important. Healthy food choices and regular physical activity are key parts of managing a wide variety of symptoms and supporting daily well-being.
Jax Hope Inc. and Baptist Health are partnering to bring the Mindful Menus for Healthy Eating Program to the aging community. Join us for a cooking demonstration and tasting as we share nourishing recipes, menus, and practical cooking tips designed to support healthy aging and improve quality of life.
Sponsored by
January 22 | 2-4 pm
North Pearl Street Baptist Church
February 26 | 2-4 pm
First United Methodist Church
March 19 | 2-4 pm
North Pearl Street Baptist Church
April 23 | 2-4 pm
First United Baptist Church
Sample Recipe - Dinner
Greek Chicken Bowl
2 Chicken Breasts or thighs (16 oz total)
leftover chicken will be used in a different meal
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup + 3 Tbs Olive oil, divided
1-2 Tbs fresh oregano, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry rice
1 cup water or broth
1/4 tsp salt (optional)
1/2 cucumber, halved and sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
(1/2 of a pint container)
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced or diced
1/4 cup pitted olives, sliced (optional)
1 Tbs (or dash) Red wine vinegar (if desired)
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled or cut into chunks
1/2 cup tzatziki, store bought or homemade.
Salt and pepper
Marinate Chicken: Mix lemon juice or vinegar, 2–3 Tbsp oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken and rest 20–30 minutes or skip marinating entirely.
Cook Chicken: Pan-cook or bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes. Save for the later lunch recipe.
Cook Rice: Prepare 1 cup cooked rice using whatever grain you have.
Prep Veggies: Use fresh, canned, or thawed frozen vegetables; season with a little oil, vinegar or
lemon, salt, and pepper.
Assemble Bowls : Rice • Veggies • Chicken • Yogurt/Tzatziki Optional: Cheese or Olives
Sample Recipe - Lunch
Budget-friendly Chicken Pita Wraps
1- 1 1/2 cups leftover sliced chicken
2 whole wheat pitas
1/4 cup hummus or tzatziki sauce from previous meals
1/2 cucumber, diced
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
(1/4 of a pint container)
2 Tbs feta, crumbled or cut into chunks
Squeeze of lemon or dash of red wine vinegar
Warm pitas, tortillas, or bread if possible
(microwave or pan-heat).
Reheat leftover chicken with a splash of water or oil.
Add vegetables—fresh, canned (drained), or cooked leftovers.
Spread hummus/yogurt/bean spread.
Fill with chicken and veggies. Add optional cheese and a squeeze of lemon or vinegar.
Serve warm with extra yogurt or bean dip on the side.
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