Additional Learning
Additional
Learning
Food affects more than hunger. Access to nutritious foods can influence overall health, energy levels, quality of life, and the management of many chronic health conditions.
Produce Prescriptions are one example of how healthcare and community organizations are working together to address nutrition-related health needs, and are a part of a growing movement across the country often called Food is Medicine.
Food affects more than hunger. Access to nutritious foods can influence overall health, energy levels, quality of life, and the management of many chronic health conditions.
Produce Prescriptions are one example of how healthcare and community organizations are working together to address nutrition-related health needs, and are a part of a growing movement across the country often called Food is Medicine.
What We Have Learned in Iowa
What We’ve Learned in Iowa
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View the full Iowa Produce Prescription Program Report covering cohorts 1 and 2.
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Looking for a quick overview of IPPP’s success? See our one page snap shot below!
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All testimonies are from anonymous program participants unless otherwise stated:
“This program has made a positive impact on my life by teaching me healthier eating habits and helping me make better choices for my overall health.”“The education I have received has been easy to understand and has given me the confidence to improve my nutrition and lifestyle. The encouragement and motivation from the clinic staff have helped me stay committed to my goals, even when it has been challenging.”
"We have observed significant success with the program, including patients expanding their culinary horizons by trying new vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, and brussels sprouts. Equally rewarding is witnessing families engage in cooking and meal preparation together, further strengthening their commitment to healthier lifestyles." - Erin Hernandez, ARNP, Medical Director, Primary Health Care.
"I was 303 lbs. and now I am 262 thanks to this program. I believe every household should be participating because it has really changed my life. I never used to buy produce at the grocery stores, and now I have given up cakes and candy bars for fruits and produce. My daily snacks are grapes and celery sticks! This is the best I have felt in 20 years. I have a whole new wardrobe, I have more energy, and my A1C levels have also dropped!”
“The Prescription Produce Program has changed my life. Fruits and vegetables have become a daily fixture in my diet. I feel better physically and mentally more now than I ever have!”
National Sources
NPPC
NPPC advocates for policies that help healthcare providers prescribe healthy food and make it easier for people to access fruits and vegetables as part of improving their health
FIM Coalition
The Food is Medicine Coalition helps connect people with medically tailored food and nutrition services through healthcare, while advancing research and policy to expand access nationwide.
Tufts FIM toolkit
The Food Is Medicine Toolkit provides healthcare organizations with practical guidance, tools, and best practices for implementing nutrition-based programs that improve health outcomes and address chronic disease.
American Heart Association
This American Heart Association study found that produce prescription programs can improve nutrition, food security, and key health outcomes for people at risk of chronic disease.
GusNIP
GusNIP provides funding for produce prescription programs that help people afford fruits and vegetables, improve health, and reduce food insecurity.
Rockefeller FIM Initiative
The Rockefeller Foundation's Food is Medicine initiative supports programs that use healthy food as part of healthcare, including produce prescriptions, medically tailored meals, and nutrition support.