Hy-Vee dietitians to offer free omega-3 index screenings in March

Hy-Vee is providing 2,000 free omega-3 index screenings at select Hy-Vee stores throughout its eight-state region as a part of National Nutrition Month in March.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to the body as they support a healthy heart. They also work to lower cholesterol, specifically triglyceride levels. The omega-3 index screening measures the amount of omega-3 in the bloodstream and can help identify heart-risk factors.

An omega-3 index screening is administered via a simple finger stick. A few weeks after the screening appointment, individuals will be contacted by their local Hy-Vee dietitian to set up an appointment to go through their results and discuss steps that can be taken to improve their omega-3 levels. The follow-up visits can take place in person, by phone or virtually. Registration is required for the free omega-3 index screening and can be made online. Once registered, a local Hy-Vee dietitian will reach out to schedule a screening based on screening availability. Omega-3 index screenings are only available while supplies last and provided in partnership with GOED and Nordic Naturals.

[Read more: Hy-Vee pharmacies offering flu shots]

Hy-Vee dietitians also will be offering the following events throughout the month:

New In-Store Personalized Nutrition Shopping Assistance (available at select locations)

Hy-Vee dietitians are launching a new service this month to help customers navigate the aisles and discover nutritious products that align with their personal health goals. During the one-hour personalized shopping experience, customers can shop the aisles of Hy-Vee with a dietitian to get product recommendations tailored to their lifestyle, whether seeking better-for-you ingredients, dairy- or gluten-free options, foods that support heart health, simple meal planning tips and more. The service is only $25 and is waived with a $100 grocery purchase. In addition, customers must register online for a personal nutrition shopping tour.

[Read more: Hy-Vee set to host quarterly Best of Local Brands summit]

Free Virtual Wellness Wednesday Classes

Hy-Vee dietitians will host free virtual classes every Wednesday from noon to 12:30 p.m. highlighting simple recipes and products to try. March class topics include Boosting Brain Health, Friday Fish Fry Reinvented, Soup’s On, Figuring out Fats and Chocolate 101! Registration is available online.

Virtual Freezer Meal Workshops

Hy-Vee dietitians will host virtual Freezer Meal Workshops designed to help families save time and money by prepping five flavorful meals ahead. Participants have the option between two workshops and will receive a step-by-step guide, recipes and a Hy-Vee Aisles Online shoppable link with all of the ingredients already added for easy shopping.

• Gluten-Free and Dairy Free ($10)

Hy-Vee dietitians make it easy for individuals to manage their dietary restrictions related to allergies and food sensitivities. Individuals will prepare five flavorful, budget-friendly meals. Registration is available online. 

• Traditional ($10)

Individuals will learn how to prep everyday meals ahead of time to help individuals and families reach their health goals. Registration is available online. 

To learn more about Hy-Vee’s dietitian events and services, search by location.