Pictured, from left, are Una Daly, Breda McDermott, Loran Concannon, Rachael Lynott, Alan Quinlan, Rebecca Keane, head chef Ronan Fox and Evalyn Walsh.

Former rugby star visits Mayo University Hospital

FORMER Munster and Ireland rugby player Alan Quinlan was in Mayo University Hospital to launch Nutrition and Hydration Awareness Week.

As health and wellness ambassador for Aramark, one of Ireland’s leading food companies, Alan Quinlan is on a mission to get Ireland eating more healthy foods and to be more aware of the importance of drinking water and staying hydrated.

The week-long Nutrition and Hydration Awareness Week in Mayo is a joint campaign led by Saolta Hospital Group, Nutricia Advanced Medical Nutrition and Aramark.

Speaking at the launch, Quinlan said: “As a professional sportsperson, we are trained in the importance of eating well, but more importantly of the need to replenish our bodies with water after a heavy training session or game. We all need to drink more liquids in our daily routine. Very often we mistake thirst for hunger - by drinking regularly throughout the day you will keep yourself healthier both physically and mentally.

This event at Mayo University Hospital is a great example of reaching out to patients, staff and visitors to talk about the importance of nutrition and staying hydrated.

Simple steps, such as drinking water regularly throughout the day, eating more fresh fruit and vegetables or cutting down on the amount of sugar and salt you eat can make a big difference.

It’s particularly important when you are ill to help ensure a proper recovery and I’m delighted to be here to support the efforts of everyone at Mayo University Hospital and Aramark.”

Aramark dietitian Naomi Hastings said: “The event is about recognising and raising awareness of nutrition and hydration as an essential element of quality care and recovery from illness. Weight loss and malnutrition increase a patient’s risk of serious complications during their hospital stay and afterwards, so it is important that families and carers understand how best to care for their loved one when they leave the hospital.”

Ronan Fox, head chef, Mayo University Hospital, added: “Aramark has a strong track record in the healthcare sector and we are delighted to be working with the Saolta Hospital Group and Nutricia in bringing awareness to this campaign. Good nutrition is vital to our health. Without adequate nutrition, your body cannot respond as efficiently to medical treatment.

Our menus have been developed and nutritionally analysed to provide the right nutrients in a balanced and appetising way for our patients. A multidisciplinary team including chefs, dietitians, catering managers, and speech and language therapists have worked together to develop our menus.”