Utah programs promote nutrition to combat chronic diseases

The "Food Is Medicine" movement is gaining popularity in Utah, aiming to improve health through nutrition. Two programs in the state are focused on providing patients with specialized food and nutrition education to help manage chronic conditions. Alma Rivera, who is pregnant and has gestational diabetes, recently visited the University of Utah Health Food Pharmacy in Midvale. She received a prescription for food tailored to support her health during her pregnancy. Similarly, Oswald Hutton, a veteran facing chronic pain and high blood pressure, benefits from a program that connects him to nutrient-rich food and nutrition classes. Doctors and health experts emphasize that diet plays a crucial role in health. Dr. Amy Locke, a leader at the University of Utah, highlights that dietary risks greatly influence chronic diseases and deaths. Access to nutritious food is essential, especially for those with low incomes or health issues. The 2022 White House Conference on Hunger underscored the link between diet and health, noting that many Americans suffer from diet-related diseases. The ongoing programs aim to reduce this by providing not just food but also the education needed to make healthier choices. Programs like the University of Utah Food Pharmacy and others funded by the Rockefeller Foundation focus on addressing food insecurity and improving health for participants. These initiatives are designed for individuals with chronic conditions, providing resources like gift cards to buy fresh produce. The Food Pharmacy operates out of a truck filled with nutritious options. Patients can learn about healthy eating in a supportive environment and shop for groceries as part of their treatment plan. This approach combines education with access to food, making it easier for people to make better dietary decisions. Both Rivera and Hutton are hopeful about the benefits of these programs. They believe that improving their diet can lead to better overall health and well-being. The success of these initiatives relies on collaboration with local grocers and organizations to ensure that participants can access the food they need. As more people engage with these programs, they aim to show that food can indeed be a powerful tool for health, helping to improve lives one meal at a time.