Jim Grove, a blueberry enthusiast, is embracing a daily cup of blueberries for a year as part of a research study. Grove, 67, shared his consumption progress, having consumed around 35 pounds of blueberries since the study began. Following a recent assessment, Grove received a supply of Nova Scotia wild blueberries to maintain his daily intake.
Grove is participating in a study conducted by Dalhousie University’s faculty of medicine, focusing on the effects of daily blueberry consumption, protein powder intake, and personalized exercise routines on frailty and heart health in older individuals. This study aims to determine if this regimen can enhance health outcomes and potentially lead to blueberry prescriptions from doctors.
The study is part of the food prescribing trend in Canada, where doctors prescribe fresh food to patients at risk of diet-related chronic diseases. Leah Cahill, a registered dietitian leading the study named STRONG, highlights the significance of lifestyle prescriptions for preventing illnesses.
The research team is recruiting participants aged 65 and older for the clinical trial to assess the impact of daily blueberry consumption. The study received a $1-million grant from the River Philip Foundation to support transformative medical research endeavors.
Cahill emphasizes the importance of addressing frailty and heart health, as cardiovascular diseases pose a significant health threat in Canada. By providing food and exercise guidance, the study aims to alleviate the burden of making healthy choices alone and promote long-term strength and well-being.
The concept of food prescribing is gaining momentum in Canada, with a growing interest in utilizing fresh food prescriptions to combat food insecurity and manage chronic diseases. While the practice shows promise, further research is needed to evaluate its effectiveness and cost-efficiency compared to other healthcare programs.
In Guelph, Ontario, clinicians at the Community Health Centre have been prescribing fresh food akin to medications since 2019, leading to improvements in health outcomes among clients. However, sustainable funding remains a challenge, prompting calls for government investment in provincial food prescription programs.
As food prescribing initiatives expand in Canada, ongoing research studies like the one at Dalhousie University play a crucial role in evaluating and advancing these innovative healthcare approaches. Grove, a participant in the study, reflects on the positive impact of his new routine, expressing optimism for future health improvements.
