A Healthcare Staffing Agency’s Guide to Better Pizza Nights
Let’s face it — after a long, demanding shift in scrubs, there’s something comforting about a hot, cheesy slice of pizza. At 3B Healthcare, we understand the hustle, the stress, and the midnight cravings that come with being on the front lines of healthcare. Our nurses and caregivers work hard — and they deserve to eat well and feel well.
So what if we told you that your favorite pizza night could actually support your heart health?
As a healthcare staffing agency that supports thousands of dedicated nurses across the U.S., we’re big on two things: compassionate care and healthy choices. And that starts with YOU — our incredible healthcare heroes. Whether you’re pulling a double shift or relaxing on your day off, here’s how to enjoy pizza without putting your heart at risk.
🍕 1. Build a Better Crust – Your Pizza’s Foundation Matters
Your pizza’s base shouldn’t sabotage your health goals.
Try these nurse-approved options:
- Whole-wheat thin crust – less processed, more fiber.
- Spelt flour or cauliflower crust – gentle on blood sugar, great for sustained energy.
- Whole-grain pita or tortilla pizzas – fast, easy, and dietitian-approved.
Pro tip for night-shift nurses: prep mini tortilla pizzas and freeze for quick reheat breaks!
❤️ 2. Skip the Cream — Sauce Smart Instead
It’s tempting to reach for Alfredo or BBQ sauce after a long shift, but your heart deserves better.
Heart-happy sauces include:
- Tomato-based with no added salt – rich in potassium and antioxidants.
- Olive oil + garlic drizzle – supports healthy blood vessels.
- Homemade pesto – flavor-packed with basil, pine nuts, and good fats.
- Sofrito-style – sautéed garlic, onions, and fresh tomatoes — comfort with a Mediterranean twist.
🧀 3. Cheese Wisely, Nurse Strong
As healthcare professionals, we know that moderation is key, especially with sodium and saturated fats.
Smarter cheese choices:
- Fresh mozzarella or part-skim varieties – lighter on the heart.
- Feta or ricotta – bold flavors mean you can use less.
- Dairy-free options or nutritional yeast – surprisingly satisfying!
Bonus: Nutritional yeast is rich in B-vitamins — essential for energy during back-to-back shifts.
🌱 4. Load It Up (With Veggies, That Is!)
This is where pizza becomes a nutrient powerhouse. Think of your pizza as a canvas of color — and nurses, you know the importance of eating the rainbow!
Veggies to stack high:
- Bell peppers, mushrooms, onions (hello, immunity boosters!)
- Tomatoes and olives (antioxidants galore)
- Spinach, arugula, kale (fiber + iron = stamina for those 12-hour shifts)
- Even pineapple (controversial but full of vitamin C)
🍗 5. Power Up With Lean Protein
Nurses need lasting energy — not a sodium crash from pepperoni or sausage.
Upgrade your protein:
- Grilled chicken or turkey breast – lean, filling, heart-approved.
- Shrimp – high in protein, low in fat.
- Tofu or tempeh – plant-based power for vegan caregivers.
Zumpano says it best: “The No. 1 best way to boost the nutritional value of your pizza is by cutting out processed meats.”
We agree — and so do the cardiologists!
🍽️ Ordering In? Be a Takeout Pro Like a 3B Nurse
Sometimes there’s just no time to cook — and that’s OK! When you’re ordering takeout after a demanding shift, follow these quick tips to stay on track:
✔️ Choose thin or whole-grain crusts
✔️ Ask for light cheese (or none!)
✔️ Load up on veggies
✔️ Avoid double meat — opt for grilled options
✔️ Consider vegan pizzas + bring your own nutritional yeast!
Remember, being heart-healthy doesn’t mean being flavor-less. At 3B Healthcare, we believe in fueling the caregivers who keep America’s heart beating — literally and figuratively.
👩Because a Healthy Heart Means a Healthier Nurse
As a nurse, your heart takes care of so many others. Let’s make sure you’re taking care of it too — one delicious, smarter pizza at a time.
Need more wellness tips made just for healthcare professionals?
Follow 3B Healthcare for more food-smart, energy-boosting, shift-saving advice. Because staffing you is just the start — supporting your whole wellbeing is our mission.
Discover how we’re honoring nurses with compassion and exclusive deals — check it out here: National Nurses Week 2025: Celebrating Compassion & Recognizing Nurses with Exclusive Deals.
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