The implementation of “food is medicine” programs has shown promising results in improving the health outcomes of individuals with diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. These programs provide patients with free fruits and vegetables upon receiving a prescription from their healthcare providers. In a recent study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, researchers observed notable improvements in the health of these patients, including reductions in blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and weight.
The findings of this study suggest that the improvements observed in clinical outcomes can have a meaningful impact on the overall health of patients. Notably, systolic blood pressure, which refers to blood pressure during heartbeats, decreased by more than 8 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg), while diastolic blood pressure, which represents blood pressure between heartbeats, decreased by nearly 5 mm Hg. Comparatively, this reduction is approximately half of what can be achieved through medications specifically designed to lower blood pressure.
Across the United States, numerous healthcare providers have been experimenting with “food is medicine” programs, one of which includes produce prescription programs. The analyzed study represents the largest evaluation to date of such programs, which aim to provide patients with diet-related illnesses access to free, nutritious food. Participants in various locations, such as Los Angeles, Boise, Houston, and Minneapolis, were able to select their preferred fruits and vegetables from grocery stores or farmers markets using electronic cards or vouchers. They typically received approximately $65 per month for a duration of four to ten months.
Data was gathered from 22 produce prescription locations operated by Wholesome Wave, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting affordable and healthy food access. The 4,000 participants in this study either had existing poor cardiometabolic health or were at risk for developing such conditions. The findings revealed that individuals who took part in these programs demonstrated an increased consumption of fruits and vegetables. Additionally, they were one-third less likely to experience food insecurity, a state characterized by insufficient access to food for meeting basic needs and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The Link Between Food Insecurity and Cardiometabolic Health
It is essential to address food insecurity and reduce diet-related illnesses in the United States due to the severe health implications they impose on individuals. More than 300,000 annual deaths in the country can be attributed to cardiovascular disease and diabetes cases directly influenced by dietary habits. The estimated 13.5 million households facing food insecurity are particularly vulnerable to developing cardiometabolic health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. Furthermore, these individuals often experience shorter life expectancies and higher medical costs.
The 2022 White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health played a pivotal role in outlining a national strategy to eradicate food insecurity and reduce diet-related illnesses. This conference yielded a comprehensive plan, which included the implementation of more produce prescription programs. Historical evidence demonstrates the impact that previous White House conferences have had on food policies in the United States. Notably, the National School Lunch Program expanded, and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) was established as a result of previous conferences over 50 years ago.
In response to the latest conference, the Indian Health Service and the Veterans Health Administration initiated produce prescription pilots within a year. Additionally, eight state Medicaid programs have either received or applied for federal waivers allowing Medicaid to cover produce prescriptions for up to six months for eligible individuals. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that these programs are still not accessible to the majority of Americans who could benefit from them.
Continued Assessment and Research
The evaluation of “food is medicine” pilots supported by the Flexible Services Program in Massachusetts’ Medicaid program is ongoing. Furthermore, researchers are conducting a comprehensive, randomized controlled trial where one group of cancer patients will receive free home-delivered meals while the other will receive standard care. These efforts aim to further explore the efficacy of providing nutritious food to patients as part of their healthcare treatment.
The implementation of “food is medicine” programs, particularly produce prescription programs, has shown promising results in improving the health outcomes of individuals with diet-related illnesses. The provision of free fruits and vegetables has led to positive changes in blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and weight. These programs also address food insecurity, which disproportionately affects individuals with poor cardiometabolic health. However, there is a need for broader accessibility to these initiatives to ensure that all Americans who could benefit from them can have equal access to nutritious food as a form of medical treatment. Ongoing evaluations and research will further contribute to our understanding of the impact of “food is medicine” programs and solidify their role in healthcare.
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