What is Food as Medicine?
Nutrition’s power to promote health and manage disease
Food as Medicine is a holistic healthcare strategy that utilizes the therapeutic benefits of food to MANAGE, REDUCE SYMPTOMS, and ASSIST IN TREATING various health conditions, particularly chronic ones.
Food as Medicine underscores the interconnectedness and enhances synergies between nutrition, healthcare systems, and individual wellbeing.
Food as Medicine encourages patients to actively contribute to their health journey by becoming “CEOs of their own health.”
BENEFITS OF FOOD AS MEDICINE
The components of Food as Medicine work synergistically to create a comprehensive approach to health and nutrition. This interconnected approach enhances the overall effectiveness of Food as Medicine strategies, promoting better health outcomes and empowering individuals in their health journey.
IMPROVED QUALITY OF LIFE
IMPROVED HEALTH OUTCOMES
ENHANCED DIET QUALITY
DISEASE SELF-MANAGEMENT –
“CEO OF YOUR OWN HEALTH”
REDUCED FOOD INSECURITY
NOURISHING AND EQUITABLE FOOD SYSTEM
HEALTHCARE COST SAVINGS
MEDICAL FOOD
Specially formulated and processed products for the dietary management of diseases or conditions with unique nutritional requirements, regulated by the FDA and intended for use under medical supervision.
NUTRITIONALLY COMPLETE AND INCOMPLETE FORMULAS: Essential nutrients in correct proportions for patients who cannot consume regular food due to medical conditions (complete formulas); supplements to the diet to provide specific nutrients that might be lacking (incomplete formulas).
FORMULAS FOR CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT: Enabled by new scientific discoveries, formulas for managing chronic diseases, such as cognitive and central nervous system disorders, immune disorders, cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal disorders for bone, muscle, and joint health, and oncology.
FORMULAS FOR METABOLIC DISORDERS: Formulas tailored for individuals with specific metabolic conditions, such as phenylketonuria (PKU).
ORAL REHYDRATION PRODUCTS: Products used to manage dehydration, often due to conditions like chronic diarrhea.
Products derived from food sources with extra health benefits in addition to their basic nutritional value. Unlike medical foods, nutraceuticals are regulated as a food category and are available over-the-counter.
NUTRACEUTICALS
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS: Specific nutrients added to the diet to address specific nutrient deficiencies and support overall health.
DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS: Products to supplement the diet, providing nutrients that may not be consumed in sufficient quantities through food alone, such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, and other substances.
FUNCTIONAL BEVERAGES: Beverages formulated with added ingredients that provide specific health benefits beyond basic nutrition, such as probiotics, antioxidants, or herbal extracts.
THERAPEUTIC MEALS
Meals tailored to meet the specific dietary requirements of individuals with certain health conditions or nutritional needs.
PRODUCE PRESCRIPTIONS
CONDITION-SPECIFIC MEAL PLANS: Tailored meals for dietary requirements and nutrient balance, such as diabetes management and cardiac health.
PORTION-CONTROLLED MEALS: Meals portioned to meet caloric needs, often used in weight management programs or for patients with diabetes.
ALLERGEN-FREE OPTIONS: Meals free from common allergens, such as gluten, dairy, and soy.
Groceries customized to meet the nutritional needs of individuals with specific health conditions or dietary requirements.
MEDICALLY TAILORED GROCERIES
CUSTOMIZED FOOD BOXES: Fortified grocery boxes customized to meet the unique nutritional needs.
NUTRIENT-DENSE INGREDIENTS: Ingredients high in nutrients and low in calories.
DIETARY RESTRICTION-FRIENDLY OPTIONS: Groceries free from specific ingredients, such as gluten, dairy, or meat.
Programs to increase access to fresh produce and improve dietary habits.
FRUIT AND VEGETABLE VOUCHERS: Vouchers to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables.
COMMUNITY-SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE (CSA) BOXES: Boxes of fresh produce delivered on a regular basis.
FARMERS MARKET PROGRAMS: Programs providing vouchers or other forms of assistance to purchase fresh produce at farmer’s markets.
DIGITAL TOOLS
The accurate identification of medical conditions and nutritional deficiencies, enabling effective and targeted nutritional support, including the availability of self-diagnostic tools.
EXPANDED CARE PATHWAYS
Technology-based solutions that support Food as Medicine programs, e.g., meal planning apps, nutrition tracking software, or telehealth platforms for nutritional counseling.
DIAGNOSIS
Programs to empower customers with knowledge and skills for healthier eating habits.
NUTRITION & CULINARY EDUCATION
COOKING CLASSES: Classes teaching how to cook healthy meals.
NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING: 1:1 sessions with a registered dietitian or nutritionist.
MEAL PLANNING WORKSHOPS: Workshops teaching how to plan healthy meals.
Innovative financial structures that support the implementation of Food as Medicine programs, including insurance coverage for medically tailored meals or produce prescriptions.
E-SCREENING
Ongoing research in fields such as the microbiome, nutrigenomics, and precision nutrition, driving the development of novel Food as Medicine approaches in healthcare and community settings.
Integration of nutrition-focused interventions into standard medical care protocols for various health conditions.
REIMBURSEMENT
Digital tools used to assess an individual’s nutritional status, food security, and dietary needs to inform personalized Food as Medicine interventions.
