The ancient concept of food as medicine, pioneered by Hippocrates, is gaining contemporary recognition as a new study reinforces the notion that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can have a profound positive impact on heart health. In a world grappling with an epidemic of diet-related diseases, which rival smoking as a leading cause of death, this research provides hope and insight.
The study focused on “produce prescriptions,” a program that offers complimentary fruits and vegetables to individuals with diet-related ailments like diabetes, obesity, and hypertension. Conducted across 12 states, the research involved almost 4,000 participants facing challenges affording healthy food. These individuals received monthly vouchers averaging $63 for up to 10 months, redeemable for fresh produce at retail outlets or farmers’ markets, depending on location.
Healthcare providers monitored shifts in weight, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels among the participants. Kurt Hager, a study author and instructor at UMass Chan Medical School, expressed enthusiasm for the observed improvements. “Among adults with hypertension, we saw that systolic blood pressure decreased by 8 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure decreased by about 5 mm Hg, which could have a meaningful impact on health outcomes,” said Hager.
Among those struggling with uncontrolled diabetes, A1C levels, representing a 2-3 month average of blood sugar, notably declined by approximately 0.6 percent. “The reductions we saw in blood sugar were roughly half that of commonly prescribed medications, which is really encouraging for just a simple change in diet,” Hager added.
Participants echoed their positive experiences, with Joann Erickson, a 60-year-old who engaged in Sacramento County Health Center’s prescription produce pilot initiative, affirming the program’s benefits. Approximately 85% of participants reported enhanced health due to their participation.
Michel Nischan, co-founder of Wholesome Wave, a non-profit organization that organized the program, emphasized the importance of diet in health management. As a chef and father of two sons living with diabetes, Nischan attested to the power of increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, resulting in lower A1C levels and reduced insulin usage. He asserted the need for evidence to advocate for policy change.
This study underscores the value of embracing food as medicine, providing a promising path toward improved heart health and overall well-being.
