WEST DES MOINES, Iowa  — Hy-Vee’s registered dietitians will mark Heart Health Month by hosting events focused on heart health throughout February. The dietitian team will host educational events, including virtual cooking and nutrition classes, as well as free, in-person cholesterol screenings at select locations.

February is also Black History Month and this year’s theme is “Black Health and Wellness.” According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), African-American individuals are 30 percent more likely to die from heart disease than non-Hispanic white individuals. Hy-Vee said it is committed to supporting racial unity and equality across its eight Midwestern states and the company works with its racial unity and equality partners to address inequalities in healthcare.

The events and classes outlined below were created with all Hy-Vee customers in mind, the company said.

Free “Meet Your Metrics” Screenings (In Person)

Hy-Vee dietitians will provide 1,000 cholesterol screenings across all 8 states in select locations. Participating consumers can receive their results on the spot and learn how your Hy-Vee dietitian can assist them in improving your results. Screening appointments will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. The screenings are sponsored by the following companies: Cardiotabs, Plus it Up!, Kevin’s Natural Foods, Bolthouse Farms, and Wonderful Pistachios.

Wellness Wednesday Classes with Hy-Vee Dietitians (Virtual)

New complimentary virtual Wellness Wednesday classes are offered every Wednesday from 12:00-12:30 pm. In February, each week dietitians will cover heart-healthy nutrition topics including heart-healthy hummus, heart-healthy cooking oils, smoothie boosters and dietitian-approved desserts.  Each class will include a recipe demonstration, and requires advance registration.

Freezer Meal Workshops (Virtual)

Dietitians will host virtual Freezer Meal Workshop classes. Consumers can register to receive a step-by-step guide, recipes, shopping list and a Hy-Vee Aisles Online shoppable link. Workshops will include meal prep tips and product recommendations to help consumers reach their health goals.