Children and parents were surveyed in 2023 to find out how they experienced the food and drink at the Máxima Center and what they would like to see improved. Overall, satisfaction is very high. Families are happy with the variety and flexibility. They assume that the food is basically healthy, but sustainability is not an important issue for them. In addition, in some situations it is more important to have something to eat than to eat healthily. Based on the Health Council's Good Nutrition Guideline, scientific research and experience with nutrition for children with cancer, the Máxima Center has described all the important aspects in the nutrition vision.
High on the agenda
Speaking on behalf of the food steering committee, Esther Fijnekam, contract manager Food & Beverage, mentions the specific developments that have taken place recently, such as the children's counter in the restaurant. Children can order their own food. This is an example of giving children and parents control over their food choices, while also providing an incentive to make healthy choices and not eat in their rooms. There are several action items on the agenda for the coming period, including for parents, staff and visitors. Esther: ‘In the coming months, we will take up other issues that are included in the nutrition vision. Things like stimulating family meals at the table, improving nutrition education for parents, and an active fruit distribution for children in the clinic and the day care unit.’
Healthy aating
We follow the Health Council's Good Nutrition Guideline with fresh and unprocessed ingredients full of good nutrients: Eat plant based, fresh and unprocessed foods, choose whole grains, eat meat, fish and dairy in moderation, vary and avoid highly processed foods. Eating unhealthy foods occasionally is not bad, but it must be balanced. A healthy diet is not always possible for children during the treatment process. The Máxima Center is a center where healing and quality of life come first. We understand this and respond accordingly. At certain points, we deliberately deviate from the Good Nutrition Guidelines; for example, we continue to use animal protein sources to achieve adequate protein intake. Parents and children can make their own choices, within the range offered and with customized solutions.
Proactive nutrition counseling and education
All healthcare professionals communicate that nutrition is an integral part of care and is important for recovery and quality of life in the short and long term. We provide education and counseling on healthy eating both in the center and at home. There are different stages in the treatment and recovery process that require different approaches. Healthcare professionals are equipped with the information and choices that can be made around nutrition. We clearly explain why good nutrition is important as part of care. The child and parents are in control of the diet. The food offered is adapted to the needs, developmental stages and wishes of the children, e.g. in terms of portion size, consistency, diet, allergies, nutritional values. Meals are fresh, seasonal, sustainable and attractive to look at. Families can choose to eat in their room, in the restaurant or cook in the Ronald McDonald Living Room. Children's food and drink is part of ongoing (scientific) research. New findings from research on changes in smell and taste, metabolism, and the effects of sobriety inside and outside the Máxima Center are applied wherever possible. It is important to adapt.