A groundbreaking national survey has shed light on public perceptions and awareness of food, health, and Food is Medicine programs. Led by the Food is Medicine Institute at Tufts University’s Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, the study unveiled that almost 90% of Americans believe that consuming nutritious foods is crucial in preventing health conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.
The findings, recently published in Health Affairs, disclosed that although less than 30% of respondents were familiar with the Food is Medicine movement, over half expressed their willingness to participate in initiatives like produce prescriptions, medically tailored groceries, or medically tailored meal programs if offered through their healthcare providers. Among individuals facing food and nutrition insecurity, interest in taking part in such programs surged to nearly 70%.
Moreover, the survey highlighted that more than two-thirds of participants felt that government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid should cover Food is Medicine interventions, with about half also indicating that private insurance should provide coverage. The comprehensive 24-question survey was completed by over 3,000 adults from various demographic backgrounds, ensuring a representative sample across sex, race, insurance coverage, household income, education, and health status.
Lead author Ronit Ridberg, a research assistant professor at the Friedman School, emphasized the disconnect observed in clinical settings, where only a quarter of respondents reported their primary care provider inquiring about their food access, and less than half engaging in dietary discussions during medical appointments. Ridberg highlighted that healthcare providers often lack nutrition education and time to address dietary habits comprehensively during consultations.
The study revealed that regular conversations about dietary habits with healthcare providers could motivate over half of Americans to make positive dietary changes. Despite over 80% of respondents agreeing to adopt healthier eating habits if it improved their health outcomes, financial constraints emerged as a significant barrier. A staggering 83% of participants cited the cost of nutritious foods as a primary hindrance to consumption, with more than half endorsing the notion that healthcare systems should subsidize or provide access to healthy foods.
Dariush Mozaffarian, senior author of the study and director of the Food is Medicine Institute, stressed that the survey results debunked the myth that individuals are averse to healthy foods, highlighting widespread desire for dietary improvements amidst specific challenges. The research team is actively engaging in the 2nd Annual Food is Medicine Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill to advocate for enhanced infrastructure supporting Food is Medicine programs, including increased nutrition training for healthcare professionals, expanded research funding, and broader program coverage through federal healthcare initiatives.
In conclusion, the study underscores the public’s strong support for integrating food-based therapies into healthcare practices. It provides valuable insights for policymakers to propel initiatives toward holistic and cost-effective healthcare solutions. As the research team continues its advocacy efforts, the ultimate goal is to bridge the gap between food and health, ensuring equitable access to nutritious foods for all individuals.
