How and where to use the signal system –
We have used the
concept widely, particularly for mass communication with lay people, at public "Your
Diabetes World Exhibitions" since 1999 as a food display. The
exhibitions have received more than 350,000 visitors so far. The exhibition travels to different parts of
the country and we research, display and talk of local food at each place
displaying the healthy and not so healthy foods.
With professionals
during educational programs in
Choosing Healthy food from a buffet table –
Most hotel chefs
(without previous knowledge of nutritional principles) were able to understand
the principle and the concept of flagging by brief discussion and observing the
process at the first display by one of the authors (Kavita Kapur). By the
second buffet display they could flag it correctly. The mere flagging of food
makes people pick healthier options. The trend continues at subsequent meals
even without flagging at least during the course of the program. Uniformly
people find that this concept provides them the opportunity to make an informed
choice, is easy to understand and immediately focuses attention on what is
healthy. Doctors are now recommending that all hotels must flag their buffet to
help people choose healthy foods.
Conclusion –
The signal system
has proved to be a simple yet highly effective tool - easy to understand,
useful for less motivated person and for mass communication, at different
levels of literacy. It encourages healthy eating by focusing on high fiber, low
glycemic index and low fat foods. It focuses attention on how processing and
cooking can affect foods. The latter is an important empowering tool and helps
people make informed choices. The person with diabetes and his family must
understand what constitutes healthy food and how to make the right choice.