Duke University study finds produce prescriptions fail to improve health outcomes
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · May 1
Duke University study finds produce prescriptions fail to improve health outcomes
5 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · May 1
In a 12-month trial of Type 2 diabetes patients at risk of food insecurity, an $80-a-month fruit and vegetable card did not lower BMI, blood pressure or doctor visits.
The prescription group had slightly higher blood sugar than controls, and only 30% used at least 80% of the benefit, suggesting limited demand for produce despite free access.
The report argues preference for junk food, rather than price, better explains obesity, while noting other produce-support trials have also shown little or no meaningful benefit.
If giving people free vegetables doesn't improve their health, is our food environment designed to make us fail?
As 'produce prescriptions' show mixed results, can new FDA regulations truly change what America eats?
Beyond cost and convenience, is your personal biology the real secret to a healthy diet?