Produce Prescription Program for Rural North Carolina Families

The study focuses on improving the diet and health of rural families in North Carolina by increasing their intake of fruits and vegetables while reducing unhealthy components like saturated fats, salt, and added sugars. This is important because rural families often face difficulties accessing affordable healthy food, which contributes to health disparities. The goal of this program, called PhytoRx Families, is to see how providing a "produce prescription" can positively impact nutrition and related health outcomes. The study involves adults and school-aged children, aiming to help them eat more fruits and vegetables, which is a key recommendation to prevent chronic diseases. Participants in the study will take part in a program that supports them in accessing and eating more fruits and vegetables through a unique prescription model. Researchers will measure the amount of fruits and vegetables the participants consume using dietary recalls. They will also assess changes in participants' cardiovascular health by looking at factors like blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and body measurements. Additionally, the study will explore how participation in the program affects healthcare usage. This approach not only aims to improve diet but also to examine broader health benefits and potential changes in medical care needs.