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Fuel for Vital Processes: Food is more than just sustenance; it’s the fuel that powers our bodies. Nutrients from the food we eat provide the information our cells need to function properly. Whether it’s repairing tissues, maintaining muscles, or regulating vital processes, our bodies rely on these nutrients. Without the right information, our metabolic processes suffer, and our health declines.

Building Blocks for Health: Proper nutrition is like constructing a sturdy building. The foods we consume supply essential building blocks for our brain, muscles, bones, nerves, skin, blood circulation, and immune system. These nutrients protect us from illnesses and diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and osteoporosis. A balanced diet, rich in lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and colorful fruits and vegetables, ensures our bodies have the necessary tools to thrive.

Heart Health and Beyond: Our dietary choices significantly impact our well-being. For instance, heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States. By adopting heart-healthy eating habits, such as the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), we can reduce blood pressure, prevent cardiovascular issues, and improve overall health. High-fiber foods, limited trans fats, and proper hydration play crucial roles in keeping our hearts strong. So, let’s savor the power of food—it’s not just nourishment; it’s our lifeline to good health! 🍎🥦❤️

Food is Medicine Initiative: The White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health in 2022 renewed national attention to end hunger and reduce chronic diseases by 2030. The Food is Medicine approach integrates consistent access to diet- and nutrition-related resources. Federal investment supports these approaches across communities and systems. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) developed a Food is Medicine initiative to improve health and racial equity by reducing nutrition-related chronic diseases and food insecurity. Access to nutritious food is essential for well-being, and Food is Medicine supports immediate and long-term resources.

Nutrition and Health Statistics: Approximately 33.8 million people live in food-insecure households. 12.5% of households with children experienced food insecurity in 2021. 117 million American adults have one or more preventable chronic diseases related to poor-quality eating patterns. Lower food security is associated with a higher probability of chronic disease diagnosis.

HHS Approach: HHS collaborates with federal partners and external organizations to advance Food is Medicine approaches. Steps include developing resources to integrate access to nutritious food and health care across the country. By prioritizing food and diet, we can prevent, manage, and treat specific clinical conditions.

 

Remember that while food plays a crucial role, it should complement, not replace, medical treatments when needed.

MyPlate is the official symbol of the five food groups, designed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

 

 

 

 

 

It provides practical guidance on healthy eating by emphasizing the importance of balancing different food groups in your diet. Based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, MyPlate helps individuals understand what and how much to eat within their personalized calorie allowance. Whether you’re looking to improve your nutrition or explore budget-friendly food ideas, MyPlate offers resources and tools to support your healthy eating journey

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This is a live link to the MyPlate site

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