How Tea and Other Cancer Protecting Beverages Can Be Very Good for Us.

There’s nothing like a nice, hot beverage on a cold winter day to make you feel relaxed and comfortable, especially if you’re under the weather. Hot beverages can do more than just warm you up though; they can literally help protect you from cancer.

Join registered dietitians from Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare at the January Food Fighters Club meeting on Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. at Covenant Cancer Treatment Center. The Food Fighters Club meets monthly to discuss cancer fighting, healthy foods and beverages; cook new recipes; and discuss how some foods/beverages can reduce the side effects of treatment. January’s meeting will focus on various hot teas. You’ll learn more about cancer-protective beverages, a healthy alternative to cancer-promoting beverages.

“Tea contains high levels of antioxidants which take on the “free radicals” in the body and prevent them from harming the healthy cells,” said Mary Steffensmeier, registered dietitian at Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare. “With the cold winter and social holidays upon us, it’s the perfect time to sample different teas and learn more about beverages that provide health benefits.”

There is no charge to participate in the program however preregistration is required by calling 319-272-2265. The meetings will be held at Covenant Cancer Treatment Center at 200 E. Ridgeway Avenue in Waterloo. For a Food Fighters Club flyer, visit www.covhealth.com/ctc.asp.