Food Security, Water & Nutrition
At Ponce Health Sciences University, we are committed to promoting food security and nutrition as part of our broader mission to advance community health and well-being. Through our academic programs and research initiatives, we equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to integrate food security and nutrition principles into healthcare practice.
Academic Programs & Training
PHSU integrates food security and nutrition education into its curriculum, preparing students to address nutrition-related health disparities as future healthcare professionals. Key courses include:
During this course the students will cover the principles of public health nutrition by describing methods used in the assessment of nutrition problems, the development of nutrition-related policies, programs for improving the nutritional and health status of diverse population groups. It emphasizes the distinction between population based and individual based approaches to prevention of diet related conditions, as well as the societal, economic, environmental, and institutional determinants of food intake and nutritional status.
This course builds upon physiology and biochemistry, providing the student with an advanced understanding of the principles of nutritional science. Students will apply these principles to individuals by designing and prescribing nutrition plans for healthy growth and development across the lifespan and to population issues such as obesity and chronic diseases. Nutrition assessment, evaluation of nutrition requirements, counseling geared towards the clinical management of specific conditions, and follow-up care as appropriate to ensure patient compliance and success of the nutrition intervention will be discussed in their relationship to advanced practice nursing.
Impact on Healthcare & Public Health
Access to nutritious food is a critical determinant of overall health and disease prevention. By integrating food security education into healthcare training, PHSU ensures that future healthcare professionals are equipped to address nutrition-related health disparities, advocate for sustainable food policies, and implement effective health interventions.
Healthy and Affordable Food Choices
PHSU is committed to ensuring that all students have access to healthy and affordable food options on campus.
Ponce–Main Campus | Offers a cafeteria serving freshly made breakfast and lunch options, emphasizing balanced, nutritious meals
St. Louis Campus | Features an advanced vending machine stocked with healthy choices, including wraps, salads, and other nutritious snacks to support student well-being
Supporting Students Through Food Assistance
PHSU recognizes the importance of food security for student success. To support our students in Puerto Rico, we operate a Food Bank, providing essential supplies to those in need. This initiative ensures that students have access to nutritious food, reducing barriers to academic achievement and overall well-being.
Commitment to Water Sustainability & Conservation
At PHSU, we recognize the critical importance of water conservation and access to clean water. Through sustainable practices, innovative infrastructure, and community partnerships, we are dedicated to minimizing water waste and promoting environmental responsibility.
Free Drinking Water Access
To reduce plastic waste and ensure easy access to clean water, PHSU provides free drinking water for students, staff, and visitors. Our drinking water fountains with bottle-filling stations have helped save tens of thousands of plastic bottles, supporting both environmental and public health efforts.
Water-Conscious Building Standards
PHSU applies sustainable building practices to minimize water usage across all facilities. By implementing efficient plumbing systems, water-saving fixtures, and smart conservation strategies, we are committed to reducing water waste while maintaining a state-of-the-art learning environment.
Eco-Friendly Landscaping
Our commitment to sustainability extends to our campus landscapes. PHSU utilizes water-conscious planting strategies, incorporating drought-tolerant plants that require minimal irrigation. This not only conserves water but also helps maintain a resilient, eco-friendly environment suited to local climate conditions.
Community Engagement & Water Conservation Education
PHSU actively collaborates with local non-profits to promote water conservation awareness and protect regional water resources. One key partnership is with Estuario, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving water quality in the San Juan Bay Estuary system.
Through initiatives like the Water Day Workshop, we engage students and community members in hands-on activities, teaching them how to perform simple water quality tests and raising awareness about the importance of clean water. These educational efforts reinforce our commitment to environmental stewardship and public health.
At PHSU, we don’t just educate future healthcare professionals—we cultivate responsible global citizens who are committed to sustainability, conservation, and protecting essential natural resources for future generations.