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This is an archive article published on September 2, 2023
Weight loss and heart health: Should doctors prescribe daily fruit and vegetable intake like pills?
A US study shows when doctors wrote prescriptions, specifying fruit and vegetable intake to be taken daily, the health status of both adult and children patients following them improved, particularly haemoglobin, blood pressure and weight
Fruit and vegetable prescriptions can significantly enhance cardiometabolic health (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
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Weight loss and heart health: Should doctors prescribe daily fruit and vegetable intake like pills?
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We are constantly told what the healthy Indian plate should look like, given our proneness to obesity and chronic illnesses like diabetes. We are advised that half of our meals should comprise fruits and vegetables. But bred on a carbohydrate-heavy diet, we tend to switch back to old food loyalties. Can doctors prescribing the amount of fruits and vegetables to be had daily, just like a drug, help? A new study shows that when doctors did so, patients ate more produce, lost weight and experienced significant reduction in blood pressure.
The study, published in the American Heart Association journal Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, says that when doctors wrote prescriptions specifying the fruit and vegetable intake to be taken daily, the health markers of both adult and children patients following them improved, particularly haemoglobin, blood pressure and weight. Dr Priyanka Rohatgi, Chief Nutritionist, Apollo Hospitals, says that prescribing fruits and vegetables could be a game-changer because when doctors provide specific measures for fruits and vegetables, making them as important as drugs, it adds a sense of medical authority and urgency, increasing patient compliance and motivation to adopt healthier eating habits. “A prescription carries the weight of medical expertise, making patients more likely to perceive the dietary recommendation as important for their health. Prescriptions provide clear instructions, leaving less room for confusion or misinterpretation. Patients know exactly what is expected of them. Besides, these advisories can be tailored to an individual’s health condition, preferences and dietary restrictions, enhancing the relevance of the advice. Doctors can set specific goals, such as ‘consume five servings of vegetables daily,’ allowing for measurable progress and accountability during follow-up appointments. Patients are more likely to engage in discussions about their dietary habits during appointments, leading to a better understanding of the benefits and strategies for implementation,” says she.
How can fruit and vegetable prescriptions improve cardiometabolic health, glycated haemoglobin, blood pressure and BMI (body mass index) for adults with poor cardiometabolic health?
Fruit and vegetable prescriptions can significantly enhance cardiometabolic health by providing essential nutrients, fibre and antioxidants. Fibre helps stabilise blood sugar levels, prevents rapid spikes in blood glucose and improves insulin sensitivity, leading to better glycemic control. The diverse range of nutrients and bioactive compounds in these foods may also support pancreatic health and insulin production. Potassium-rich fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, spinach, and tomatoes can help regulate blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium. Fruits and vegetables are generally low in calories and high in fibre, which can enhance feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake. By replacing calorie-dense and processed foods with these nutrient-rich options, individuals can manage their weight and achieve a healthier BMI.
What fruits and vegetables are generally suggested to patients with poor cardiometabolic health?
Spinach, kale, collard greens and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins, minerals and fibre. They can help lower blood pressure, improve insulin sensitivity and support weight management. Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins. Oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes provide vitamin C, fibre and various antioxidants. Apples can help stabilise blood sugar levels and improve cholesterol profiles. The skin of apples contains beneficial compounds like quercetin. Rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, tomatoes are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and improved blood vessel function.
Is it possible in the Indian context to prescribe fruits and vegetables to every patient considering the varied social and economic strata the patients come from?
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This must be approached with sensitivity. India’s population encompasses a wide range of income levels, cultural practices and dietary preferences. Many individuals from lower socio-economic strata might struggle to afford an adequate amount of fruits and vegetables due to financial constraints.
To address this, a multifaceted strategy is required. Government policies should focus on making fruits and vegetables more accessible and affordable through subsidies, local agriculture support and distribution networks. Health education programmes should emphasise the nutritional benefits of these foods or their alternatives and provide creative ways to incorporate them in various cuisines.
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