When we think of healthcare, we often picture doctors, hospitals, and medicine. But what if we told you one of the most vital ingredients for a healthy life isn’t found in a pharmacy? It’s on your plate. And in communities across America, community health centers are at the forefront of this crucial conversation.

Dr. Laura Samuel talks with Amanda Pears Kelly for episode 5.
Dr. Laura Samuel talks with Amanda Pears Kelly about food security in America.

In this episode of “Community Health Centers Unfiltered,” we talk with Dr. Laura Samuel from the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing to uncover the profound connection between food, nutrition, and overall well-being. From tackling chronic diseases to boosting mental health, podcast host and ACH CEO Amanda Pears Kelly explores how access to healthy food is a critical part of a healthier future for all, and how health centers are uniquely positioned to lead the way.

Spotlight on Health & Food Security

Tune in to this episode to discover:

  • The sobering statistics on food insecurity in America. Learn how this widespread food security is, how it affects specific groups like seniors, racial groups, people with disabilities, and working families, and how community health centers are addressing this need by screening patients for food insecurity.
  • The surprising impact of nutrition on chronic conditions. Find out how a lack of nutritious food can complicate the management of conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, and how health centers are integrating nutrition into their clinical care.
  • The unseen mental health toll. We discuss how food insecurity is more than just physical hunger–it’s a source of stress and anxiety that deeply impacts mental health and well-being, and why community health centers’ whole-person care model is essential to supporting patients.
  • The innovative solutions from community health centers. Discover how health centers are leading the way by providing innovative solutions like cooking classes, community gardens, and partnerships with local organizations to address food access and nutrition education.
  • Steps to take to support whole health in your community. Check out how you can help community health centers and other local initiatives fight food insecurity.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who cares about building a healthier future.

Watch or listen here or via Apple Podcast, Podbean, or Spotify.

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