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Great hospital care means more than state-of-the-art diagnostics and treatments. It also includes healthful food to help patients get well—and stay well over the long term.
In 2017, the American Medical Association called on hospitals to provide a variety of healthful food for patients, visitors, and staff. Specifically, the AMA called for plant-based meals that are low in fat, sodium, and added sugars, and the elimination of processed meat from hospital menus. Processed meat, like bacon, sausage, ham, and hot dogs, contribute to cardiovascular disease and several common forms of cancer.
For the most common clinical conditions—weight problems, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and cancer—food choices are critical for prevention and management. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains plays a central role.
By adopting plant-based options and eliminating cancer-causing food products, hospitals not only provide a vital service to patients, staff, and visitors. They also serve a key educational function, modeling healthful habits. In the words of the American College of Cardiology, hospitalization can be a “teachable moment.”
Planting a Seed: Heart-Healthy Food Recommendations for Hospitals. American College of Cardiology, 2017.
By adopting plant-based options, hospitals can…
Improve Health Outcomes
Plant-based diets help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and many cancers.
Lower Costs
Beans, vegetables, and grains are less expensive than meat and dairy products.
Enhance Patient Satisfaction
Patients appreciate meals that help them heal.
Fulfill Community Health Needs Assessment
Promote healthy communities and improve top health issues through good nutrition.
Keep Staff Healthy
Improve staff satisfaction, productivity, and well-being with healthy meals.
Support Diversity and Inclusion
Plant-based meals meet the needs of patients from many religious traditions and cultures.
Dining Services Resources
Free assets to help bring plant-based options to your hospital.
