FAQ: Healthy Food Access and Quality of Life for Heart Failure Patients

What is the main finding of this heart failure study?

Adults recently hospitalized for heart failure who received deliveries of medically tailored meals or fresh produce along with dietary counseling reported improved quality of life compared to those who only received dietary guidance without food delivery.

Why is this research important for heart failure patients?

People with heart failure can experience their condition worsening if they don’t eat the right kind of food after hospital discharge, and this study shows that providing nutritious meals can improve their quality of life.

How was the study conducted?

The randomized trial included 150 adults enrolled within two weeks of hospital discharge for acute heart failure, with participants assigned to receive either medically tailored meals plus counseling, fresh produce boxes plus counseling, or counseling alone for 90 days.

What types of food interventions were tested?

The study tested two food delivery approaches: medically tailored meals designed to provide appropriate nutrients, and boxes of fresh produce, both delivered along with dietary counseling from a dietitian.

Were there any differences in hospital readmissions between the groups?

No, there were no differences in the number of hospital readmissions or emergency department visits for heart failure between participants who received food delivery compared to those who did not.

How was quality of life measured in the study?

Quality of life was assessed using the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire, which showed improved scores for participants in both food delivery groups compared to those receiving only dietary guidance.

What should people know about the limitations of this research?

This study is a research abstract presented at a scientific meeting and has not yet been peer-reviewed; the findings are considered preliminary until published as full manuscripts in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.

Who conducted this research and where was it presented?

The study was led by Dr. Ambarish Pandey from UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas and presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2025 in New Orleans.

How long did the food delivery programs last?

The meals and grocery food delivery programs lasted for 90 days following participants’ enrollment in the study.