Let's build a future of healthy eating
You can help us improve access to nutritious food for all Americans.
A new policy statement from American Heart Association recommends expanding and improving U.S. nutrition policies and programs to ensure all American can access nutritious food.
Because what we eat and drink matter so much.
Food security means having enough food and not having to choose between food and other basic needs. Nutrition security builds on that. It means getting enough healthy food consistently and putting that food to best use — not only what to eat, but where to find it and how to prepare it.
It's estimated that about 1 in 10 households in the U.S. experienced food insecurity in 2020.* The COVID-19 pandemic increased awareness of the problem and its disproportionate impact on under-resourced communities.
The AHA believes in the right to healthy food for all people to live their best lives. Nutrition security is our priority.
* Household Food Security in the United States in 2020. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service.
Poor nutrition can lead to poor health.
When people struggle with making their food dollar stretch further, they may have to sacrifice quality or variety or even skip meals to make ends meet.
The results can be devastating, with increased risk of:
- Obesity, heart disease, diabetes and some types of cancer
- Trouble in school for children and teens
- Increased stress and poor mental health
Keep reading to learn how to bring delicious nutritious foods to the table, even when dollars are tight, how to help others who are experiencing nutrition insecurity, and what AHA is doing to fight for equitable access for all people to healthy diets for healthy hearts.
Resources for Healthy Eating
Check out these simple recipes, shopping tips and budget stretchers.
Do you want to be part of the solution?
We want to support you in taking action in your community. Together, we can make a difference.
Making a Difference, Together
Good nutrition is at the core of good health. Click on these links to read about AHA’s work in communities to build nutrition security.
'Rescuing' food to feed the hungry
To battle food inequity, a nonprofit helps neighbors eat healthy
AHA Mobile Kitchen Program Brings Fun and Freshness to Baton Rouge
Food Insecurity Screening Strengthens Safety Net
The American Heart Association and Feeding America are proud to work together to support a common interest in promoting equitable nutrition access and health equity for all. Learn more about the partnership.
Double Duty Meals Save Time
Cooking enough of a basic ingredient (poultry, meats, vegetables or beans) at one time to use for two meals helps save time and money.
In this video, learn tips to use for food safety as you transform leftovers into a brand-new meal.
