Celebrity chefs have taken on the task of redesigning hospital food menus and catering facilities. James Martin was tasked with changing the food served at Scarborough General Hospital for BBC’s Operation Hospital Food. He was successful in transforming the menu and facilities for patients and their families. The results of the project are now being seen in a number of UK hospitals.
Hospitals are trying to improve their food service by offering healthier meals. However, the cost of sourcing healthier foods is often prohibitive for many facilities. If a patient is concerned about their health, he or she should inform hospital employees of his or her dietary restrictions. A hospital can even partner with local businesses that can provide food for its staff.
When deciding on a hospital’s menu, ask if they offer anti-inflammatory foods. While you’re at it, try to pick a hospital that offers the freshest ingredients possible. Many hospitals only offer a limited amount of anti-inflammatory foods or vegetables. Look for foods like baby carrots or vegetarian chili if these options are available. Don’t be afraid to request a meal change or a vegetarian version of the menu if you’d prefer.
One hospital is trying to improve the health of patients with diabetes and obesity by offering more nutritious food. The Hospital Healthier Food Initiative is a part of the Partnership for a Healthier America, which aims to reduce the prevalence of obesity in the United States. The program partners with hospital food providers to improve hospital food.
The American Medical Association released a policy statement highlighting the importance of healthy food in hospitals. They called for the reduction of processed meats and sugar-sweetened beverages, as well as the increase of fresh vegetables and fruit. The association also advocated for the inclusion of more plant-based foods in hospital cafeterias.
While providing healthy, fresh food to patients is expensive, it pays off in the long run. With less food waste, hospitals are more able to reduce health care expenditures. For example, patients are much less likely to ask for a second meal. The hospital kitchens are typically outdated and staff is not used to new cooking methods. A new chef-led initiative can dramatically improve the food and dining experience for patients.
Hospitals can improve patient nutrition by providing more fresh options and preparing them on a schedule. In addition, many hospitals restrict patients from eating or drinking food after midnight on the day of surgery. A healthy diet can also improve the immune system and digestive system. Many patients lose weight while they are in the hospital, so it is vital to provide nutritionally adequate food.
Hospitals can improve patient satisfaction by presenting their meals on colourful plates. Colourful plates and trays help patients better appreciate what they eat. This is especially helpful if the food is delectable. It also makes patients feel better about the hospital.