Now That’s (Very) Italian

There are many things that come to mind when the word “Italy” is mentioned—fashion, luxury cars, awesome leather goods. However, the only thing Italian everybody loves no matter their background is Italian Food, in all of its comforting glory and its many regional expressions.  While “healthy” may not necessarily be the first thing on everybody’s mind when lasagna, pasta and pizza are involved, Authentically EATalian, a new project and campaign spearheaded by the Italy America Chamber of Commerce West (IACCW), and supported by several fitness centers throughout L.A.

The kick off at Studio City’s Lotus Kitty, an innovative offering of yoga and spinning, incorporated a bracing workout followed by an informative conversation with noted Chef Nico Chessa (of Valentino L.A. and Giorgio Ristorante Las Vegas fame).  Before the much awaited sampling of lean-and-luscious pasta and salad, participants learned about the importance of fresh, organic eating using traditional staples of the Italian and Mediterranean diets. Nutritionist Dr. Dena Herman, gave solid examples of the various health benefits of the foodstuffs. For example, Omega-3, B-vitamins and Vitamin C, all commonly found in Mediterranean food, contribute to mental and cardiovascular health as well as decreasing chances of Alzheimer’s disease, depression and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.

The program has also endeavored to benefit the young, with chefs and nutritionists visiting schools across Los Angeles. A key objective of the program is to give children a head start in fighting childhood / adult obesity in the US through nutrition education based on the Mediterranean diet principles, fitness and family fun activities.

The biggest event connected to the Authentically EATalian event will take place on October 6 at CicLAvia/Heart of LA, where the IACCW will host a Piazza Italia Hub on Spring Street between 1st and Temple (9:00-4:00). For more information, visit  http://www.ciclavia.org/events/683/heart-of-la/693/about  and to learn the latest on the Authentically EATalian program, go to https://www.facebook.com/EATalian.2013>