A Systematic Review of "Food Is Medicine" Randomized Controlled Trials for Noncommunicable Disease in the United States: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Top Things to Know

FIM programs can enhance diet quality and reduce food insecurity, which are critical components of managing and preventing diet-related chronic diseases.

There is a need for larger, well-designed studies to establish the effectiveness of FIM interventions on clinical outcomes, reinforcing the importance of evidence-based approaches in integrating food into medical care.

Incorporating FIM programs into healthcare systems can provide comprehensive support for patients with diet-related chronic diseases, highlighting the therapeutic potential of food in medical treatment.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

The systematic review examined 14 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Food is Medicine (FIM) interventions in the United States, focusing on noncommunicable disease outcomes. The review found that while FIM programs often improved diet quality and food security, their impact on clinical outcomes was inconsistent and often not statistically significant. The studies varied widely in design, duration, and intensity, making direct comparisons difficult. The review highlighted the need for larger, higher-quality studies to better understand the relationship between FIM interventions and health outcomes. It also emphasized the importance of integrating FIM programs into healthcare to address diet-related chronic diseases.