Jim Grove, a blueberry enthusiast, is embarking on a unique journey where he must consume a cup of blueberries daily for a year. Grove, aged 67, shared that he has already consumed around 35 pounds of blueberries since the beginning of this venture. Following a recent physical assessment session and a series of inquiries testing his cognitive abilities, Grove was handed a large box of frozen Nova Scotia wild blueberries.
Grove is participating in a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at Dalhousie University’s faculty of medicine. The study aims to evaluate the effects of a daily blueberry intake, combined with protein powder supplementation and personalized exercise routines, on frailty and heart health in older individuals. The research team hopes that positive outcomes from this study will advocate for the prescription of blueberries by healthcare professionals.
This study is part of a larger movement in Canada known as food prescribing, where doctors prescribe fresh food to patients facing food insecurity and at risk of chronic diet-related illnesses. Leah Cahill, a registered dietitian and the principal investigator of the study named STRONG, emphasizes the importance of prescribing lifestyle interventions to prevent illnesses before they occur.
Cahill’s team is actively recruiting participants for the clinical trial, which will include 240 individuals aged 65 and above. Half of the participants will consume blueberries daily, while the other half will maintain their regular diets. Regular assessments will be conducted every three months for a year, followed by a final assessment a year later. The study received a $1-million grant from the Nova Scotia-based River Philip Foundation to support its research endeavors.
The rise of food prescribing in Canada has garnered significant interest, with researchers highlighting its potential benefits in improving fruit and vegetable intake and managing chronic diseases. While more research is needed to assess its effectiveness and cost-efficiency compared to traditional healthcare programs, proponents believe that food prescriptions can bridge gaps in accessing nutritious foods.
In conclusion, initiatives like the one at Dalhousie University and the Community Health Centre in Guelph, Ontario, exemplify the growing trend of food prescribing in Canada. These innovative approaches aim to address health disparities and promote well-being through personalized nutrition interventions. Grove, who has experienced positive changes since starting the program, is optimistic about the long-term benefits of incorporating blueberries and exercise into his daily routine.