The Donald Fraser Hospital in Vhufuli village, outside Thohoyandou, held its Nutrition Day on Wednesday, 11 October, as part of celebrating National Nutrition Week, which ran from 9 to 15 October. This event aimed to increase awareness among adults, school-going children, and caregivers on how making the correct food choices can promote physical and mental health and well-being.
The theme for the day was "Feel Good with Food". The event began with a 7-kilometre fun walk from Donald Fraser Hospital's gate to Gondeni village.
Ms Mulamzi Nkuna, acting head of dietitians at the Donald Fraser hospital, said that they had invited residents from Vhufuli and the surrounding area, retired nurses, and staff members at the hospital to come and listen to the various guest speakers, among whom were dietitians and oncology nurses. These guest speakers shared their insights on how to increase self-efficacy, and how to prepare healthy meals and snacks.
According to Nkuna, a poor diet is considered one of the biggest contributors to non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer, which are the leading causes of death. She emphasised the importance of eating unprocessed or minimally processed foods from plants, such as vegetables, fruits, starchy foods, and legumes, in the right proportions.
Dr Maduvhahafani Ramagoma, the acting chief executive officer of Donald Fraser Hospital, highlighted the significance of monitoring what we drink and eat, since it impacts our overall health. Ramagoma, who led by example by participating in the fun walk, encouraged communities, nurses, and hospital staff to continue exercising regularly for a healthier lifestyle.