Iowa hospital shares nutrition information to promote healthy food choices

Dec. 2—The chili at UnityPoint Health - St. Luke's cafeteria was a staple meal for Leslie Heying, until she found out how many calories were in it.

With the number 349 starring back at her for a 12-ounce bowl, the hospital's public relations coordinator opted for turkey and rice soup instead.

"In comparison to the chili, it's a lot healthier," Heying said. "I think I've changed my choices because of these numbers."

Since late September, nutrition/food service operations manager Christy Johnson said signage displaying the calorie, fat, carbohydrate and protein content of soups and entrees has been on display in the cafeteria to help employees, students and patients' family members make better choices.