CMU Highlights Nutrition Month Celebration with Nutritional Assessment and Counseling

To promote healthy eating habits and raise awareness about the importance of nutrition, Central Mindanao University celebrated this year’s nutrition month with a two-day series of activities organized by the Philippine Association Nutrition – Alpha Pi chapter (PAN-AP) in collaboration with the Nutrition Dietetics Society of the College of Human Ecology, on July 13-14, 2023.

The highlight of the event was the Nutritional Assessment and Counseling, where individuals had the opportunity to learn about their nutritional status and received guidance on improving their overall well-being. The assessment was open to all members of the school community, encouraging everyone to take an active interest in their health.

The President of PAN-AP, Mr. Felix M. Anastacio Jr., shared during the interview that one of the main objectives of the program was to spread awareness of the importance of nutrition and how it contributes to society, and how this program serves as the stepping stone for first-year students to understand the essence of their department.

The Nutritional Assessment and Counseling took place at the CMU Main Gate, attracting more than 60 participants eager to avail of a free consultation. The assessment process involved navigating through five stations.

Station one, manned by the first-year students, focused on Anthropometric Measurements, encompassing the height, weight, and BMI of each participant. Basic data such as name, age, sex, and any relevant medical conditions were collected to address individual needs effectively.

In station two, also managed by the first-year students, participants underwent further Anthropometric Measurements, including waist circumference, height circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, and blood pressure measurements.

In station three, the second-year students conducted dietary recalls and calculations to individualize participants’ nutritional requirements. This station involved measuring their total energy requirements and calculating their total energy intake, ensuring a tailored approach to their dietary needs.

In station four, led by third-year students, participants engaged in comprehensive Nutrition Counseling. Discussions revolved around possible interventions and dietary modifications to meet each participant’s unique health goals.

And finally, at the last station, participants eagerly gathered for the raffle draw, adding an element of fun and motivation to the celebration.

Karyne June D. Simon, a Registered Nutritionist-Dietitian (RND) and one of the faculty of the Nutrition and Dietetics Department, emphasized the significance of the annual celebration. “This is to tell the students and the people residing in CMU that there is a nutrition and dietetics course, and [to] remind them of healthy nutrition.”      

The two-day celebration was packed with engaging activities. On the second day, alongside the nutritional nutrition assessment, several contests, including poster making, essay writing, meal planning, and a live cooking show took place. While these activities were primarily exclusive to nutrition and dietetics students and PAN-AP members, everyone was encouraged to attend the activities.

In conclusion, Karyne June D. Simon stated that the celebration of nutrition month at CMU is not confined to just the month of July. Instead, it is a continuous journey towards embracing a healthier lifestyle for all members of the school community. _{[Nicole Mae D. Abao]}