Recent news headlines about the possible cancer risks from using the common artificial sweetener aspartame might have alarmed people who eat and drink products that contain it. Now, other organizations are looking more closely at those findings. The International Agency for Research on Cancer, and a World Health Organization expert committee have labeled aspartame a "possible carcinogenic." However, Hope Warshaw - dietician and secretary of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation - said she believes the report may be misleading to consumers and wants to call attention to what the research didn t say. .
Too many Missourians struggle with chronic health conditions and some are looking more closely at their diets to control or even prevent them. Supporters of the "Food is Medicine" movement believe it s time to shift healthcare thinking to include good nutrition as a way to drive better health outcomes. Emily Brown, CEO of Free From Market, a nutrition-based grocery and educational resource, said the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services can help states like Missouri apply for what s known as a Section 1115 waiver to permit Medicaid and Medicare to cover the costs of healthy foods and fresh produce for some of their most vulnerable residents. .
Higher food costs are a concern for many Oregonians, but one local health expert said people can still manage to eat healthy. Chelsea Warren, health coach manager for Providence Health Plan and an American Heart Association volunteer, said a healthy diet is balanced, with plenty of fruits and vegetables, some whole grain products and high fiber proteins. However, those foods might feel too expensive at the moment. .
The term "food deserts" is used a lot in the fight against hunger, but groups calling attention to the shortage of oral health care professionals say there are "dental deserts" too, and they hope suggested solutions gain momentum. The Kaiser Family Foundation said the U.S. needs to add nearly 12,000 dentists to close gaps in shortage areas. .