Boston University launches innovative nutrition program for the students, faculty and staff

Boston University College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College has introduced a new phase of the unique and innovative nutrition program for the students, faculty and staff of Boston University (BU) to enhance the Sargent Choice Healthy Dining Program.

Since partnering with BU Dining Services in 2004 to offer a wide variety of delicious healthy food options at convenient locations all across campus, the Sargent Choice program has expanded to include nutrition counseling, interactive nutrition classes, and a new website. The Sargent Choice website links all of the programs together and makes it possible for everyone to access personalized nutrition information.

"BU recognizes that healthy eating is a challenge in today's fast-paced environment," said Stacey Zawacki, Registered Dietitian and Director of the Nutrition & Fitness Center at Sargent College. "By embracing all facets of the Sargent Choice food and education program, BU is leading the way towards improving the eating choices and ultimately the health of the entire BU community -- 30,000 students and 8,000 staff members."

Sargent Choice utilizes the internet as a center of operations for community members looking to improve their eating habits. On the Sargent Choice website (www.bu.edu/sargentchoice), BU students and staff gain the knowledge and tools they need to make positive decisions about what, when, and how much to eat, check nutrition information for all Sargent Choice dining options, browse through pages of suggested Sargent Choice recipes, watch video-based cooking demonstrations, and find out where, on BU's vast campus, to find Sargent Choice food. The interactive Sargent Choice Personal Meal Planner, scheduled to launch in the fall of 2009, will help users develop their own customized eating guide.

Gloria Waters, Dean of BU Sargent College, said: "We are so pleased to have the opportunity to use our college's expertise to create this one-of-a-kind healthy food and education program. In addition to benefiting the entire BU community, it is poised to become a model for colleges and universities across the country."

Sargent Choice encourages students to eat in a healthy way, not only to manage a healthy weight, but also as a way to improve their mood, academic, and athletic performance. By following the easy-to-spot Sargent Choice labels in five cafeterias and six retail dining locations, students enjoy healthy versions of their favorite foods including pizza, pancakes, spaghetti, and even chocolate chip cookies. With support from Student Health Services, Dining Services, and Athletics, Sargent Choice offers counseling opportunities for a variety of nutrition concerns and educational programs on topics of interest to students including Healthy Dieting, Healthy Eating on a Budget, and Vegetarian Nutrition, at no cost to BU students.