Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the nutrition labeling in the dining centers and on our website is carefully designed to be as accurate as possible. We work closely with nutrition experts to ensure that each meal's ingredients and nutritional content are correctly calculated and clearly labeled. Our team is committed to transparency, and we regularly update our labeling to reflect any changes in recipes or ingredients.

To download the Nutrislice app, go to your device's app store, whether it's the Apple App Store for iOS devices or the Google Play Store for Android devices. Search for "Nutrislice" and select the app titled "Nutrislice Menus." Once you've found it, tap "Download" or "Install" and wait for the app to install. After downloading, open the app and search for Metro University Dining to view daily menus, nutritional information, and dining updates on the go!

If you have a food allergy or special dietary need, Metro University Dining is here to help you find safe and satisfying options. Each dining center provides detailed nutrition and allergen labeling on all food items, both in the dining halls and through the Nutrislice app, so you can easily identify dishes that meet your dietary requirements. We also encourage you to reach out to our dining team or speak with a manager or chef on-site for personalized assistance. Our staff is trained to help with special dietary needs, and we are committed to providing inclusive dining options for all students.

Metro University Dining makes it easy to identify vegan and vegetarian options. In each dining center, look for clear labels on our food items that indicate whether a dish is vegan or vegetarian. Additionally, you can use the Nutrislice app, where vegan and vegetarian items are labeled and can be filtered for in the search. If you have any questions or need further assistance, our dining staff is always available to help you locate plant-based options and can provide more details about ingredients and preparation methods.

Metro University Dining is dedicated to accommodating a variety of special diets and food allergies to ensure all students have access to safe and enjoyable meals. We offer allergen-friendly stations in our dining centers with options free from common allergens, including gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy. Additionally, our menus clearly label items that are vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and free from other specific allergens. For further customization, we encourage students to reach out to our dining staff or speak with a chef for personalized support and meal planning.

Metro University Dining is committed to providing a wide range of nutritious meal options to support students’ health and wellness. Our menus are thoughtfully crafted to include a balance of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and plant-based options, making it easy for students to enjoy balanced meals throughout the day. Nutritional information, including calories, macronutrients, and allergen details, is clearly labeled at our dining centers and accessible through the Nutrislice app, allowing students to make informed choices. In addition, we regularly review and update our recipes to align with dietary guidelines and student preferences, ensuring that all meals are not only delicious but also beneficial for physical and mental well-being.

Vegetarianism is a dietary lifestyle that focuses on plant-based foods and excludes meat, poultry, and often other animal products, depending on the type of vegetarianism. Common types include lacto-vegetarian (which includes dairy), ovo-vegetarian (which includes eggs), and vegan (which excludes all animal-derived products). Vegetarian diets can offer numerous health benefits when well-balanced, such as a reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. They are often rich in essential nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which can support digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being.

While vegetarianism offers many health and environmental benefits, it can also have potential drawbacks if not carefully managed. One common challenge is the risk of nutrient deficiencies, as certain essential nutrients, like vitamin B12, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein, are more readily found in animal products.

Special dietary needs encompass a range of dietary modifications or restrictions that people follow due to health, ethical, religious, or personal reasons. Common types include gluten-free diets for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities, which eliminate foods containing wheat, barley, and rye. Dairy-free diets are necessary for those who are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy, and they exclude milk-based products. Food allergies, such as allergies to nuts, shellfish, eggs, and soy, require individuals to avoid even trace amounts of specific allergens to prevent serious reactions. Other special diets include veganism and vegetarianism, where individuals avoid some or all animal products, and low-sodium or low-sugar diets for those managing high blood pressure or diabetes. Many people also follow low-FODMAP diets to reduce digestive symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Each special dietary need requires careful planning to ensure nutritional balance while avoiding specific foods, and our establishments now provide clear labeling and alternative options to meet these diverse needs.

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions characterized by unhealthy eating behaviors and a preoccupation with body image, weight, and food. Common types include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder, each presenting distinct challenges and risks to physical and emotional health. Students may struggle with these disorders due to various factors, including stress, academic pressures, societal expectations, or personal experiences. Recognizing the signs of an eating disorder is crucial, as they can lead to severe health complications and impact overall well-being. 

Fortunately, students at Metro University have access to supportive resources through Campus Counseling Services. The counseling team is trained to provide confidential support, therapy, and resources tailored to individuals facing eating disorders. Students can schedule appointments to discuss their challenges in a safe environment, explore coping strategies, and develop a healthier relationship with food and body image. Seeking help is a vital step toward recovery and improved mental health.

Sports nutrition and diet optimize and enhance athletic performance, recovery, and overall health. Athletes often have unique dietary needs due to increased energy expenditure, muscle repair, and the demand for endurance and strength. A well-balanced diet for athletes typically emphasizes a higher intake of carbohydrates, which serve as the primary fuel source for intense physical activity. Consuming adequate protein is also crucial for muscle repair and growth, while healthy fats provide sustained energy and support overall health.

Hydration is another essential component of sports nutrition, as even mild dehydration can impair performance. Athletes are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after exercise to maintain optimal hydration levels. Additionally, timing meals and snacks around training sessions can significantly impact performance; for example, consuming carbohydrates and protein after workouts aids in recovery.

Some athletes may also benefit from specialized diets or supplements, such as electrolyte drinks during prolonged exercise or high-carb diets before competitions to maximize glycogen stores. Ultimately, understanding and implementing the principles of sports nutrition can help athletes improve their performance, enhance recovery, and support their long-term health and fitness goals.