“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” – Hippocrates
I have used this quote in the past in my column, and this time I will reference it in a slightly different perspective.
As we are all aware, the recent government shutdown has greatly affected the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) program run by the federal government. Many of you may not have been aware of the SNAP recipients’ participation and the reliance on the program. Millions of those who rely on it are the elderly and young children. The elderly need sufficient nutrition to boost their weakened immune systems, and children and teenagers literally need the nutrition for their brain health as well as their physical energy and growth.
Let’s talk about this.
I feel blessed and humbled that I have never had to worry about my ability to have good nutrition and the difference it makes in my health and well-being. For so many, including those mentioned above, it is a constant ordeal and concern. There are many homeless, including homeless veterans, who are glad to eat just once each day, if that. I dare say that most of us do not really know the true feeling of hunger.
Back to this column’s quote by Hippocrates (often referred to as the “father of medicine”) and how we can relate to his words. Obviously, many of us rely on medicine and need medicine, but this quote refers to the nutrition we receive as medicine for our bodies. Vitamin D in our foods helps to preserve our bone structure and immune systems, while foods rich in calcium, iron, thiamine, and Vitamin A (among other vitamins and minerals) feed our brains, hearts, and eyes with optimum health. Only the best quality of food steps up to the plate (pun intended) to address these needs. Processed, sugary, high sodium, and junk foods do not and are detrimental to our overall health.
I am a person who tries to look for the positive in any situation and have found very little if any to contemplate in this recent shutdown and the resulting hardship for so many Americans. However, if there is one bit of light to shine through it is that Americans who are not impacted by the SNAP funds being withheld are more aware of the need of our local food pantries to stock their shelves. Food pantries are always in need as families struggle to make ends meet, and this situation has reached crisis level in the past several weeks. It will, I am sure, continue for some time.
I applaud the Hamilton County Reporter, and other publications and businesses, for shining the spotlight on this issue and I am sure will continue to do so for some time; and the result is that more people are donating to our food banks.
In regard to how those of us who can help, please keep in mind that the quality of food items is important for those who are in need. Think about items you would purchase for your own families and loved ones and allow that to be your guide. Some suggestions are items focusing on protein such as canned meats and peanut butter. Some food banks may be able to take dairy items as well; check before taking these items. Pastas and sauces are relatively inexpensive and can go a long way to feed a family. Oatmeal only requires some water and a heat source and is both nutritious and filling.
The health, well-being, and very lives of many depend on those of us who can help. Let’s do this.
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.