NYC Health + Hospitals today announced the launch of ‘Food for Health,’ an innovative new research study to measure the dietary and health impact of a produce prescription program for children aged 2 to 8 years old with overweight or obesity who are at risk of chronic diseases later in life. Considered the first study of its kind in the nation, this randomized, controlled trial will enroll more than 250 families whose children receive pediatric care at NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens. Families who enroll will receive a doctor’s prescription for fruits and vegetables for their child, and families randomized to the ‘Food for Health’ group will also receive 24 weeks of free home delivery of locally-grown produce. The study will test if removing financial, transportation, and access barriers to fresh produce improves children’s diets and health and supports the development of long-term healthy eating habits.
“Healthy food is medicine that all New Yorkers should have access to,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “This is personal to me – a plant-based lifestyle helped save my life, and I’m thrilled that over 125 families will be able to participate in this exciting pilot. Through innovative programs like ‘Food for Health,’ we will stop feeding the health care crisis and ensure all New Yorkers can access the healthy lifestyle they deserve.”
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