A 'prescription' for free, locally grown produce helps combat diabetes, food insecurity
TULSA, Okla. (KTUL) — Could a ‘prescription’ for free fruits and vegetables improve health?
North Tulsa nonprofit, FreshRX Oklahoma, fills prescriptions for locally grown fruits and vegetables to help combat heart problems and obesity-related diseases.
“Participants receive free produce for 12 months every other week, 4 to 6 cooking and nutrition classes, as well as free health screenings to monitor their health outcomes and many other factors,” Erin Martin, cofounder and director of FreshRX Oklahoma said.
The program launched in North Tulsa in 2021 and is recognized nationally for both its health outcomes and its economic impact by preventing hospitalizations and boosting productivity.
Currently, 12% of Oklahoma’s adult population is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and 40% of Oklahoma’s population is considered obese and at risk for prediabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is considered to be fully reversible with proper diet and lifestyle changes. However, due to rising grocery prices and the high cost of living, many can’t access healthy food.
FreshRX is making it possible.
Since 2021, the program has tripled in size. FreshRX serves patients from 22 clinics in Tulsa. The program has helped 300 participants lose close to 1,000 pounds and averaged a 2.2% HbA1c reduction, with the largest reduction from 13.6 to 5.4, nearly reversing Type 2 diabetes.
The program currently serves 13 zip codes in the Tulsa area. However, in April, the program is set to expand in 5 rural cities in partnership with the Muscogee Creek Nation and is planning an Oklahoma City expansion.
You can apply for the prescription on their website or with your primary care physician. Make sure to consult with your physician before stopping any medications.