Rockefeller Foundation expands Food Is Medicine initiative nationwide

Herman Johnson, a retired Army veteran from Houston, Texas, has changed his life through a program called Food Is Medicine (FIM). This initiative is supported by the Rockefeller Foundation and aims to use nutrition to improve health and lower healthcare costs in the U.S. Johnson struggled with his weight for years, often eating processed foods. However, after joining a FIM pilot program at the VA Medical Center, he received a debit card to buy fresh fruits and vegetables. This support helped him switch to a plant-based diet, leading him to lose 50 pounds and improve his overall health. The Rockefeller Foundation has invested over $100 million in FIM programs since 2019, focusing on helping vulnerable groups, including veterans. Each year, diet-related conditions cause 500,000 deaths and add to healthcare costs, especially among low-income households and people of color. Recently, the foundation expanded its programs to reach more veterans in five states. They plan to provide access to fresh food and study its effects on chronic diseases. The initiative has received strong bipartisan support, as it promises to transform healthcare into a prevention-focused system. Research has shown that veterans experience higher rates of obesity and diet-related diseases. With FIM, veterans enrolled in these programs report better health and satisfaction. The goal is to eventually offer Food Is Medicine to all U.S. veterans, helping them access nutritious food as a way to improve their health. For Johnson, food is no longer just sustenance; it has become a crucial part of his healthcare. He believes that food can be as powerful as medicine in preventing diseases. As he continues his journey to better health, he hopes to inspire other veterans to make similar changes.