The American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) recently updated its dietary position statement to help healthcare providers tackle chronic diseases. Led by nutrition expert Dr. Melissa Bernstein, this initiative emphasizes nutrition as a key factor in health management.
A report from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation in 2023 found that dietary risks are among the top causes of early death in the U.S. This highlights the urgent need for effective dietary guidelines. Research shows that plant-based diets can lower the risks of various health issues, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even certain cancers. On the flip side, diets high in ultra-processed foods are linked to serious health problems.
The expert panel behind the new guidelines included a diverse group—dietitians, medical doctors, chefs, and health coaches. They agreed on four essential points:
Food as Medicine (FAM): This concept promotes using nutrition as a means to improve health. It encompasses personalized nutrition education, culinary instruction, and support programs, especially for underserved communities.
Dietary Patterns: There’s a spectrum of food interventions, from prevention to actual treatment of chronic diseases. These interventions vary in intensity.
Optimal Diet Components: The ideal diet should be rich in whole, minimally processed plant foods while limiting red meat and ultra-processed items high in sugar and saturated fats.
Team Approach: The best way to implement FAM is through a collaborative healthcare team. This team should include registered dietitians trained in lifestyle medicine.
ACLM’s updated statement is part of their ongoing effort to enhance the role of lifestyle medicine in patient care. They’ve developed various educational resources over the years to support healthcare providers in applying these guidelines.
A groundbreaking study published in Advances in Nutrition in 2023 compared dietary recommendations in existing clinical practice guidelines, highlighting a consistent emphasis on plant-based foods and low consumption of salt and alcohol across various chronic diseases.
Dr. Bernstein noted, “This position statement strengthens ACLM’s mission to integrate food into healthcare effectively.”
For further details on the dietary position statement, check out ACLM’s blog here.
In summary, diet matters. With chronic disease rates rising, understanding how food affects our health can lead to better outcomes. By prioritizing plant-based foods and fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, we can make significant strides in improving public health.
