I’ve blogged in the past about my love for farmers’ markets. They have such a wide array of fruits and vegetables that I’ve been able to try things I might never have noticed otherwise. Now a unique program in Massachusetts is using farmers’ markets to expose low-income children to these foods and help combat childhood obesity. Doctors at three Massachusetts health centers have been giving coupons to their young, low-income patients to be used at local farmers’ markets. The coupons equal about $1 per day. Coupons are given to each member of the patient’s family, and are supposed to be redeemed for the fruit or vegetable “prescription” that the doctor has given. The purpose is to encourage families to try new foods and increase their daily consumption of fruits and vegetables. The idea of using farmers markets to improve dietary habits is not new. There are currently 36 states that issue farmers’ market coupons to low-income women and children. But the idea of a doctor writing prescriptions for specific fruits and vegetables is a new concept. The doctors will track participants eating patterns and weight to see if the program has an effect on their health. Some people have questioned the ability of this program to change eating habits long-term, especially as fall approaches and farmers’ markets close. Will families continue trying to buy a variety of produce on their own? Will they be able to afford it? Does it matter if they are eating more fruits and vegetables if they are still snacking on chips and soda? While I understand the hesitation to expect big results, I think programs like this are a unique step in the right direction. They are supporting local farmers while making the effort to improve the health of young people in the area. What do you think? Is this kind of program a good idea? Have you seen anything similar where you live? |
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