DALLAS – Our health is influenced by much more than what happens during a doctor’s visit. Research suggests that 80% to 90% of health outcomes come from factors like diet, exercise, and daily habits.
Yet food, a key factor in health, is rarely seen as medicine. Recently, a panel discussion called “Beyond the Doctor’s Office: Nourishing Health from the Inside Out” highlighted this issue. Experts from local health organizations talked about using food to prevent and manage diseases, especially in relation to food insecurity and chronic illness.
Dr. Jaclyn Albin, an internist and director at UT Southwestern’s Culinary Medicine Program, noted that the concept of treating food as medicine isn’t new. It gained attention during the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s, when patients with advanced HIV benefited from medically tailored meals. “They found that healthy meals helped people heal,” she said, emphasizing that nutrition can improve longevity and comfort.
Research shows that access to nutritious food can significantly impact conditions like heart disease, which claims thousands of lives daily in the U.S. Despite the simplicity of eating better, many feel overwhelmed or unmotivated, particularly if their experiences with healthy foods have been negative.
Milette Siler, a culinary dietitian, encourages people to consider financial access and emotional connections to food. Instead of focusing on what to eliminate, she suggests enhancing meals with nutritious ingredients. “Can we add value to affordable ultra-processed foods?” Siler asks, highlighting the importance of understanding nutrition labels and nutrient density.
Building healthy habits early in children’s lives is crucial. Dr. Stormee Williams, a pediatrician, suggests introducing healthier versions of favorite foods. For instance, serve baked apples with cinnamon instead of apple pie. “Don’t restrict what kids can try,” she advises. “They might like things you don’t.”
Dr. Dora Johnson, who specializes in family medicine, emphasizes the importance of protein for those taking GLP-1 medications for diabetes or weight loss. “When you lose weight quickly, you can also lose muscle mass,” she explains. Incorporating protein and small, frequent meals can help maintain muscle health.
Food insecurity remains a barrier for many. The Community Health Needs Assessment Report identified it as a top issue in Dallas and Rockwall counties. Jessica Hernandez from Parkland Health noted that understanding these challenges is crucial for developing effective local health programs.
One innovative solution is a nutrition pharmacy that partners with local clinics. Patients who are screened for food insecurity can select food from a pantry, reducing stigma and simplifying access. “Our goal is to address both food and nutrition insecurity,” Siler shared.
Experts agree that treating food as medicine is essential for improving public health. They advocate for sensitive discussions about food, especially for those who have faced food-related trauma. Dr. Albin concludes, “We need to change how we talk about food to foster better health outcomes.”
As society shifts towards recognizing the healing power of food, it’s vital for healthcare providers to adapt and engage in meaningful conversations. By doing so, we can work towards healthier communities and better health for all.
