Lilavati Hospital Introduces Millet-Based Nutrition Program 'Aarogyum' for Holistic Patient Care
Recognizing the pivotal role of nutrition in healing and recovery, Lilavati Hospital, in collaboration with Sodexo, has launched ‘Aarogyum’, a millet-based diet initiative designed to enhance patient care. This pioneering program reflects the hospital’s commitment to holistic healing while embracing millet as a nutritious and sustainable food source.
Revolutionizing Patient Nutrition
Dr. Niraj Uttamani, Chief Operating Officer at Lilavati Hospital, emphasized the initiative’s importance, stating, “Nutrition is a vital aspect of recovery. Millets are nutrient-dense, offering protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that aid digestion and promote gut health, essential for patients recovering from various conditions. Through 'Aarogyum,' we aim to accelerate patient recovery with immunity-boosting meals tailored to diverse tastes and dietary needs.”
The program features innovative millet-based recipes crafted by the hospital’s culinary team, encouraging patients to adopt healthier eating habits that can extend beyond their hospital stay.
Collaboration for Enhanced Care
Sodexo, a global leader in food services, brings over two decades of partnership experience with Lilavati Hospital to this initiative. Sharad Misra, COO of Health & Care at Sodexo India, explained the vision behind 'Aarogyum,' saying, “The idea is to match patient care with the right nutrition, inspired by the principles of Ayurveda. By combining fresh ingredients, advanced cooking techniques, and close collaboration between dietetics and culinary teams, we've developed a menu that is both healthy and flavorful.”
Misra highlighted that this program addresses a long-standing gap in patient nutrition, emphasizing that food can be a differentiating factor in the healing process.
Positive Impact and Patient Response
Dr. Uttamani highlighted the encouraging feedback from patients and their families, noting that “Safety, hygiene, and food variety are critical factors influencing patients' choice of hospital. With 'Aarogyum,' we are confident in creating a distinctive patient experience, further strengthening our reputation for innovative and comprehensive care.”
Rajiv Mehta, Permanent Trustee of Lilavati Hospital, concluded by underlining the program’s broader health implications: “Health is fundamentally linked to what we consume. Our goal is to ensure that the meals are not just nutritious but also enjoyable, fostering the best health outcomes for patients and staff alike.”
A Milestone in Holistic Healthcare
The launch of 'Aarogyum' marks a significant step toward integrating nutrition into patient care. By embracing the ancient wisdom of millets with modern culinary techniques, Lilavati Hospital and Sodexo aim to redefine dietary standards in healthcare, promoting both immediate recovery and long-term wellness.