Sugary drinks off the menu at Caboolture Hospital

Sugar laden soft and sport drinks are no longer sold at Caboolture Hospital as part of a range of healthier new options for staff, patients and visitors.

Metro North Hospital and Health Service Board Chair Dr Robert Stable AM said hospitals are places you go for healthcare so stopping the sale of unhealthy sugar loaded drinks makes perfect sense.

“We know soft drinks in particular offer absolutely no nutritional value, and do more harm than good. An average can of fizzy drink contains 10 teaspoons of sugar,” Dr Stable said.

“Sadly, the Caboolture region has one of the highest rates of obesity in Queensland, with one in every five adults overweight or obese. This means locals are at higher risk of a wide range of chronic health conditions, including Type 2 diabetes, tooth decay, cardiovascular disease, stroke and even some cancers.

“As a hospital, we’re about making people feel better and improving the food options we provide to staff, patients and visitors can make a big difference to everyone’s health.

“That’s why this community involved initiative is a great step in the right direction, for both staff and patients. Our business is health and we all want to make the right choices to get the best health outcomes for Caboolture and Queensland.”

The sugary drink removal at Caboolture Hospital is supported by more healthier food and beverage options the canteen and vending machines. Over the coming months, other Metro North hospitals will follow suit.

Director of Allied Health and Service Partnerships at Caboolture Hospital Donna Ward said we are extremely proud of the efforts made by staff to embrace their own health and well-being.

“Not only are Caboolture staff more active through our Fit Fab Cab exercise program, they are now better informed with food labelling throughout the hospital from green to red,” Ms Ward said.

“We are pleased the canteen now stocks a variety of wholesome foods from salads to stir-fries and the vending machines have healthier snacks and drinks.

“As a large community hospital I understand all too well how easy it is to make a quick choice rather than a healthy one. Grabbing packaged food or a soft drink on the go is very tempting for many of our busy shift workers.

“We are committed to working beside our staff and local community to improve the overall health journey. This initiative puts us on the front foot and empowers our staff to lead by example.”