Florida Scientists Lead the Charge in ‘Food Is Medicine’ Movement to Combat America’s Health Crisis

Researchers at the University of Florida are calling for a big change in how we handle obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They believe our health, farming, and food systems need a fresh approach.

A recent article in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that we should think of fruits and vegetables not just as food but as medicine. In the U.S., 73% of adults and 35% of children are considered overweight or obese. This isn’t just a personal issue; it poses a serious threat to our economy and national security.

Dr. Andrew Hanson, a co-author of the article, emphasized the urgency of this situation. "This isn’t business as usual. We all need to talk about it," he said. To change the current landscape, the article lays out several key steps. These include establishing “Food Is Medicine” centers supported by the National Institutes of Health, boosting domestic fruit and vegetable production, and making healthy foods more affordable and appealing.

Surprisingly, only 1 in 10 adults eats enough fruits and vegetables daily. The U.S. fails to produce nearly enough of these essential foods. To tackle this, researchers advocate for increasing production of high-impact crops like berries and leafy greens.

Dr. Christopher Gunter, another co-author, emphasizes that horticulture has been overlooked in health discussions. "Our aim is to highlight how fruits and vegetables can improve health nationwide," he said.

Dr. Hanson pointed out that most U.S. farmland is dedicated to growing crops like soybeans and corn, which are often turned into unhealthy processed foods. This focus contributes to the ongoing obesity and diabetes crisis.

Dr. Mike Jaffee highlighted the link between diet and brain health. "Obesity is connected to inflammation and neurodegeneration," he stated. We’re living longer, but if we don’t prioritize a healthy diet, our brains may not keep up.

Furthermore, lower-income families often struggle to afford healthy foods. “To eat enough fruits and vegetables, you need time and money—both of which are luxuries for many,” Dr. Hanson noted.

The researchers argue that farmers can offer vital insight into how we can improve our nutrition. "They understand how the environment affects what we eat," Dr. Gunter explained.

In a broader context, the shift towards healthier diets is not just about individual choices; it’s about creating a supportive environment. By recognizing the importance of fruits and vegetables, we can work toward better health for everyone.

For more insights and in-depth discussions on the topic, you may want to check out the CDC on obesity prevention.

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