New Leaf Foods Speaks on Food Insecurity Panel at Medical College
by LuTia Colbert
At New Leaf Foods, we believe that addressing the root causes of health challenges is crucial for building a healthier and more resilient community. Recently, we had the honor of participating in a Food Insecurity panel on November 9th at Medical College of Wisconsin, where we engaged with first-year medical students alongside representatives Amanda Chu, from NEW Food Forum, and Liliana Ramirez Extension's Food WIse.
The event was a collaborative effort to shed light on the significant impact food insecurity has on overall health and to emphasize the vital role healthcare professionals play in addressing these challenges.
Understanding the Broader Picture
During the panel, students received valuable insights into the importance of screening for social factors, including food insecurity, as part of the intake assessment process. It was emphasized that understanding what, when, and how people are eating is not only essential for potential medication interactions but also for general prescribing practices. Dr. Leslie Ruffalo of Medical College delivered a comprehensive presentation, enlightening students about the nuanced nature of food-related health challenges.
Food Insecurity: Beyond Production
A key takeaway from the discussion was the recognition that food insecurity is not merely a food production problem but a complex issue rooted in distribution challenges. The panel aimed to broaden the perspective of future healthcare professionals, encouraging them to consider the social determinants of health and adopt a holistic approach to patient care.
Hands-On Learning: Healthy Choices Budget Simulation
The engagement went beyond theory as students actively participated in the Healthy Choices Budget Simulation activity. This hands-on experience allowed them to grasp the difficulties and sacrifices individuals living in poverty face when striving to maintain a healthy lifestyle, providing a deeper understanding of the daily challenges faced by those experiencing food insecurity.
Connecting Students with Community Solutions
New Leaf Foods representatives had the opportunity to inform students about the array of programs within our community designed to address food insecurity. Future healthcare professionals were made aware of resources they can refer patients to, such as local food pantries and government assistance programs. Additionally, students were introduced to initiatives like "Planting for a Purpose," encouraging the cultivation of surplus produce for donation to pantries, and various volunteer opportunities within the community.
Empowering Future Healers
Our participation in this panel was driven by the belief that healthcare professionals armed with knowledge about social determinants, such as food insecurity, can be powerful advocates for community health. By fostering collaboration between healthcare and community organizations, we can create a more robust support system for individuals facing food challenges.
New Leaf Foods extends gratitude to Medical College of Wisconsin, NEW Food Forum, and Extension Food WIse for providing this platform to address food insecurity and empower the next generation of healers. We look forward to continuing these important conversations and collaborative efforts for a healthier, more resilient community.
Together, we can plant the seeds of change and cultivate a future where everyone has access to nutritious food and holistic healthcare.
