Hospital wants you to eat healthy this festive season
The Dr Yusuf Dadoo Hospital recently focused on healthy eating habits during the coming festive season when they hosted an awareness campaign.
When they hosted an awareness campaign recently, the Dr Yusuf Dadoo Hospital placed the focus on healthy eating habits during the coming festive season.
In a statement, the hospital’s communications officer Puseletso Mabidikame said with the festive season around the corner the hospital wanted to challenge the community and staff to eat healthier.
Patients and staff listened to talks and were handed pamphlets, stickers, food packs and fruit snacks to encourage them to eat a well-balanced diet.
The awareness campaign included the Environmental Health, Dietetics, and Infection and Prevention Control teams, and formed part of the hospital’s commemoration of World Food Day on October 16, as well as National Nutrition Week and International Hand-washing Week.
Head of dietetics Mumsy Malatji said, “Drinking fizzy drinks and alcohol regularly, and eating chips, biscuits and sweets such as chocolates may increase your risk of developing diseases such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and cancer. Rather grab a fruit when you are too busy to cook.”
Infection and Prevention Control coordinator Mirriam Matomela also made proper hand-washing illustrations to help create awareness about good hygiene practices.
“Before you pick up any item of food, please ensure that your hands are clean,” she said.
This was also the perfect opportunity for the hospital to showcase their small new vegetable garden. The theme of the unveiling was ‘safe food now for a healthier tomorrow’, and the small garden’s produce were shared with those in attendance.
“We appreciate all who assisted in making sure that the garden project is successful,” added Environmental Health Practitioner Nyeleti Zitha.
Speaking on behalf of management, the hospital CEO Patrick Sofohlo said, “We are proud to see progress, and we will continue to support these projects. You are encouraged to eat less junk food and have plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. You may achieve this by planting your small vegetable gardens at home.”
Puseletso also said the Employee Wellness and the Horticulture Departments were applauded for their expertise and assistance to ensure the success of the project. Attendees could also speak to the horticulturist about starting their own veggie gardens at home, or upgrading the ones they already have.
