Ever wondered if the saying โan apple a day keeps the doctor awayโ has some truth to it? Recent research has unveiled that a simple solution โ fruit and vegetable prescription by doctors, could significantly help boost nutrition and lower the risk of heart disease.
Why is there an urge for fruit and vegetable prescription?
A recent study, published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality, has brought some exciting revelations. The study involved nearly 3,900 participants, including adults and children at a higher risk of cardiovascular issues due to their socioeconomic status.
The researchers handed out vouchers (averaging $63 per month) to be used at local grocery stores, alongside nutrition classes.
The outcomes were impressive. Adults saw a daily increase of nearly a cup in their fruit and vegetable intake, while childrenโs intake increased by a quarter cup.
For adults with diabetes, blood sugar levels decreased, and those with high blood pressure experienced a dip in both systolic and diastolic readings. But thatโs not all โ participantsโ body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, and blood sugar levels showed declines too.
Hereโs the kicker: food insecurity, a pressing concern for many, was slashed by a third among the participants. Itโs not just about the physical health benefits; the study recognized the broader impact of improved diets on mental health, stress reduction, and overall well-being.
A Boost for the Food-Health Connection:
This study underscores the potential of subsidized produce prescriptions in promoting healthier eating habits. Itโs not merely about preventing heart disease; itโs about elevating public health through a smart and tangible approach.
The research echoes the mission of initiatives like the American Heart Associationโs โFood is Medicine,โ which aims to make nutritious food accessible to all.
So, the next time you hear about an appleโs incredible benefits, know that itโs backed by some serious research. With the right guidance, a simple tweak in our diets could potentially work wonders for our hearts and overall health.
The journey from the farmerโs market to your plate might just be the path to a healthier you.
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