Food as Medicine

Overview

According to Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, having access to healthy and nutritious food is critical to ensuring a healthy life. Cost of food, income disparities and food deserts are some factors that contribute to food insecurities. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), food deserts are defined as areas that lack access to affordable fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low fat milk and other foods that make up a health diet. Alatrum reports, the number of food deserts is likely under-reported, given that the North American Industry Classification System has determined that small corner stores, which primarily sell pre-packed, unhealthy options, are in the same category as mainstream grocery stores selling a wide variety of healthy foods. Lack of healthy food options can lead to an increase of chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Addressing environmental factors such as eligibility programs to increase and expend eligibility benefits, establishing food banks, or community gardens can be steps taken in preventing disease and working towards achieving and maintaining overall health and wellness.