Family Nurse Practitioner and President of the National Nurses Council, Nurse Priscilla Prevost, has urged Dominicans to adopt healthier eating habits amid growing concerns over the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and cancer.
Speaking on September 13, 2026, Prevost emphasized the significance of consuming nutritious foods that provide the body with essential
nutrients and support overall health.
She explained that a balanced diet should include carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. Prevost encouraged people to reduce their intake of simple carbohydrates, including sugar and sweetened beverages, while incorporating fibre-rich foods such as ground provisions, breadfruit, plantains, green bananas, and other fruits into their daily meals.
The nursing professional also highlighted the importance of making informed choices about protein and fat consumption. She identified
meat, fish, eggs, milk, and cheese as sources of animal protein, while pointing to beans, peas, nuts, seeds, and soy products as valuable
plant-based alternatives.
Mrs. Priscilla Prevost encouraged Dominicans to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diets and consume animal products in
moderation.
She further explained that the body requires healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to function properly, and noted that many of these nutrients could be obtained from locally available fruits and vegetables. According to Prevost, adopting healthier dietary practices could help individuals better protect their health as the country confronts the burden of chronic illnesses and cancer.
Nurse Prevost is encouraging citizens to exercise greater care when preparing or selecting meals at social gatherings.
She advised hosts to provide nutritious options and urged individuals attending buffets to choose balanced meals containing vegetables, complex carbohydrates, and suitable protein sources, rather than consuming excessive amounts of meat, cheese, and other foods high in saturated fat.
Prevost cautioned that poor dietary choices could contribute to health complications, including elevated cholesterol levels, and result in
increased medical expenses.
“We could have done better by just making healthier food choices,” she stated, emphasizing the significance of prevention and personal responsibility in reducing the risks associated with non-communicable diseases and cancer.
