“Prescriptions” for healthy food help Pennsylvanians manage diabetes and lower health care costs - FoodNavigator-USA.com

And the answer is yes.

Almost one year ago, Gesinger Health System and the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank officially cut the ribbon at their Fresh Food Farmacy and began ‘prescribing’ food-insecure, diabetic patients in Shamokin, Penn., with free food and guidance to help keep their disease under control.

Participants visit the health center once a week to pick up 10 meals based on the American Diabetes Association’s recommended diet that is rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein and whole grains and is low in sodium, saturated fat and carbohydrates, according to Alicia Beachy, associate project manager for the Fresh Food Farmacy at Geisinger.

The program also provides education in diabetes self-management – so teaching participants how to read nutrition labels, set goals and know the difference between good and bad carbs. A registered dietitian, registered nurse healthcare manger, community health associate and pantry manager also work with recipients to correct behavior and close care gaps, Beachy said.

“Really it is trying to set them up for long term success outside of those 10 meals we provide,”​ she said.

She also noted that the program doesn’t stop with just the registered patient. Rather, it recognizes that food and eating is a communal event, which is why the program provides meals for the patient’s entire household.

“We are trying to make a generational impact, as well. So, we are seeing grandkids come in with their grandparents and getting excited about cucumbers,”​ Beachy said.

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https://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/Article/2019/04/18/Prescriptions-for-healthy-food-help-Pennsylvanians-manage-diabetes-and-lower-health-care-costs

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