Last week, the House Ways & Means Committee’s Health Subcommittee held a hearing titled “Investing in a Healthier America: Chronic Disease Prevention and Treatment.” The hearing explored how poor nutrition, a lack of education, and disparate access to heathy diet options are a direct contributor to the nation’s chronic disease rate. The food industry, which often prioritizes addictive foods and products over nutrition, like “big tobacco,” were highlighted as a key issue that is negatively impacting the health of our nation. Food is Medicine (FIM) as a concept for combating and preventing further chronic disease was a reoccurring theme throughout this hearing.

Facts from the Hearing

Chronic diseases are a growing health and economic burden; conditions like obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s are becoming increasingly prevalent, driving up health care costs. By 2030, cumulative chronic disease costs could reach $42 trillion. The U.S. is on the wrong trajectory, with chronic disease rates ballooning across the country. For example, more than two in five adults are obese, and nearly one in five children are obese. Furthermore, 19 states in America have obesity rates over 35%, which increased from 16 states in just one year. A decade ago, no states had obesity rates above 35%.

FIM Strategy

FIM is a health care approach that focuses on integrating access to diet- and nutrition- related resources. FIM programs include several components:

• Physician screening for appropriate medical conditions and social needs like food or nutrition insecurity.
• Treatment with specific food-based interventions like medically tailored meals, medically tailored groceries, or produce prescriptions.
• Nutrition coaching and culinary education, often organized by Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) via in person, telehealth, or digital interfaces.