Many illnesses require only change of eating and dietary habits for the sufferer to regain good health.
The Chairman of the University of Ibadan Board of Health, Professor Adesina Oladokun, made this observation at the official opening of the Food and Veggies Palace established by the University Health Services, Jaja Clinic.
Professor Oladokun stated that people who eat well are not often times susceptible to illnesses.
He disclosed that the University Health Services had concluded plans to conduct extensive medical and food counselling to all staff of the University, adding that the programme would be taken to faculties and units very soon.
The Director of the UHS, Dr Aderonke Ajav, said the establishment of the Fruits and Veggies Palace was to assist members of the University community with access to fruits and vegetables especially, organic products.
She said this desire was in line with specific components of Primary Health Care: educating clients on the need for certain products, availability, accessibility and affordability of such products; proper food and nutrition; as well as prevention and control of non-communicable diseases.
She advised people to make it a goal to get more fruits into every meal and even as snacks because all fruits have a reasonably good purpose.
Dr Ajav said the shop would give fair, pocket friendly prices for hygienically produced fruits and vegetables but she urged all to commit to home gardening and every activity that supports increased use of fruits and vegetables in their diets.
She assured that specifications on hours of opening, days of counselling, special products for each day, online booking, delivery services, and all other information about the shop will be circulated within the University.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, said the project will be most beneficial to members of the University community in particular and the public in general.
He commended the efforts of the Director and the staff of the University Health Services for the initiative and assured them of the support of the University management.
