CORONARY PATIENTS TALKING ABOUT NUTRITIONAL RISKS: NUTRISCORE LABELING AND VENDING MACHINES IN HOSPITALS

This study analyzes discourses of a sample of coronary patients (N = 12) after attending a planned cardiac rehabilitation program. Through two focus groups as research technique, a qualitative study is carried out. The objective of this study was twofold. First, to know to what extent the participants had information about the new nutritional labeling and the key factors pursued by Spanish Law 17/2011, of July 5th, on food safety. Second, to assess adherence to the educational lectures within the cardiac rehabilitation program, to know their opinion about the contents of the vending machines in hospitals, and to identify their advices/suggestions in order to improve the quality of the care services they receive. The results show the importance of reinforcing educational programs aimed at patients so they can choose a more adaptive behavior in terms of adopting a heart-healthy diet by assuming a more active role in their recovery.