Food Insecurity, Health, and Health Care in the US

Top Things to Know

FIM programs can significantly improve health outcomes by providing access to nutritious food, reducing the risk of diet-related diseases.

Integrating FIM programs into healthcare can lower healthcare utilization and costs by addressing food insecurity and its associated health impacts.

Federal nutrition programs and FIM initiatives together can create a robust support system, enhancing food security and overall well-being for vulnerable populations.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

The review examined the relationship between food insecurity and health outcomes. It highlights that food insecurity is linked to poorer physical and mental health, higher healthcare utilization, and increased healthcare costs. The review also discusses the role of federal nutrition programs like SNAP and WIC in mitigating food insecurity and improving health outcomes. Additionally, it emphasizes the potential of Food is Medicine (FIM) programs to integrate nutritious food access into healthcare delivery, thereby preventing and treating diet-related diseases.