Research Drives Our Cause

Medically tailored meals (MTMs) are not just meals—they are lifelines, essential in addressing the social determinants of health, reducing hospital readmission rates, and ultimately improving health outcomes for those living with chronic diseases! Eat Karma is committed to being a catalyst for change in this landscape.

In the vast tapestry of health in the United States, the power of nutrition cannot be overstated. It stands as the bedrock of well-being, influencing every facet of our health journey. Yet, the harsh reality is that poor diets are not merely a minor concern—they are the leading cause of death, shaping the destiny of millions across the nation. This harsh truth weighs heaviest on those already grappling with socio-economic challenges—lower-income individuals, rural communities, and historically marginalized racial and ethnic groups bear the disproportionate burden.

Enter Eat Karma—a beacon of hope and transformation, founded on the principles of beneficence and justice. At our core, beneficence compels us to do good and act in the best interest of others. Justice, meanwhile, champions fairness, equality, and access to resources for all. With these guiding lights, Eat Karma emerged, propelled by the mission to confront the systemic injustices perpetuating food insecurity, malnutrition, and health disparities, especially among vulnerable populations.

We recognize that these issues are deeply rooted, entwined with the very fabric of societal structures. Thus, our approach extends beyond immediate aid and resources—it's about igniting systemic change. By grounding our actions in evidence-based research, we ensure that our culturally relevant food interventions are poised to effect tangible change in the battle against illness and food-related disparities.

Consider this: every year, suboptimal diets exact a staggering toll of $1.1 trillion on the U.S. economy—equivalent to the entire economic output of the food system itself. Yet, hope gleams amidst the data—culturally relevant MTMs, coupled with nutrition education, could save a remarkable $40 billion annually in healthcare costs while enhancing nutrition and health outcomes.

Furthermore, the evidence underscores that interventions like MTM programs yield substantial benefits. People living with serious medical conditions, who received 10 MTMs per week for an average of 9 months per year, witnessed a 49% reduction in hospital admissions and a 72% decrease in skilled nursing facility admissions, culminating in a 16% reduction in total healthcare costs.

The potential for positive metamorphosis is undeniable, and it commences with each of us. As Eat Karma marches forward in its mission, fueled by the principles of beneficence and justice, we extend an invitation for you to embark on this transformative odyssey with us. Let's unite and chart the course towards a healthier, more equitable tomorrow.