NUTRITION SCIENCE

At the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa, our nutrition science team is dedicated to empowering individuals to make informed, heart-healthy food choices, reducing the risk of cardio- and cerebrovascular disease, and promoting overall well-being. We provide expert guidance on nutrition and behavioural choices that support a healthy heart and brain.

The nutrition team aims to achieve several key objectives. Firstly, we strive to enhance public nutrition knowledge by developing and disseminating evidence-based nutrition information through a variety of channels, including social media, health talks, educational resources, and community outreach programs. Additionally, we support salt reduction initiatives by collaborating with relevant stakeholders to promote salt reduction strategies, advocate for healthier food options, and contribute to policy development that supports public health. Furthermore, our nutrition science team plays a critical role in ensuring that all nutritional information communicated to the public is accurate, understandable, and practical, thereby upholding the integrity of our evidence-based communication.

Our team has several key responsibilities that enable us to promote heart and brain health effectively. One of our primary roles is in the Heart Mark Endorsement Program, approved by the National Department of Health, where we assess the nutritional criteria of products to ensure they meet the Heart Mark’s criteria, developed in line with both national and international standards. Additionally, we write monthly cardiovascular disease updates that summarize the latest research, providing healthcare professionals with actionable insights to apply in practice. We also engage with the media, participating in radio and TV interviews, seminars, webinars and presentations, where we share our expertise and promote heart-healthy living to diverse audiences.