What Is a Medically Tailored Meal?

Every person is a complex individual with unique needs. Dietary requirements can shift based on environment, preference, and health conditions. This fact may be frustrating or disappointing; however, unfortunately, it is an unavoidable aspect of life for many. The good news is that LifeSpring Home Nutrition is here to offer you a medically tailored meal for every occasion.

If you had a nut allergy, you probably wouldn’t pack a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for lunch, and if you were lactose intolerant, you wouldn’t choose ice cream for dessert. It is normal and common to require nutritional accommodations. Intentionally and specifically designed meals can prevent and treat various health complications. The sooner you begin to properly honor your body’s needs, the happier and healthier you will be.

What Is a Medically Tailored Meal?

Medically tailored diets support those with health conditions that require specific diets. People battling chronic and severe illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer can benefit from an individualized meal plan. According to the National Resource Center on Nutrition and Aging, “A growing number of experts and healthcare professionals think that such medically tailored meals (MTMs) look like a promising solution to both boost quality of life and trim healthcare costs.”

For instance, some meal plans may be lower in saturated fat and sodium while higher in fiber to promote heart health. A person with diabetes, however, might monitor their carb intake to maintain adequate blood sugar levels. On the other hand, someone following a renal diet may limit sodium, phosphorus, and protein intake to slow or reduce kidney damage.

In the same regard, nourishment can also serve as an aid in mental health management and addiction recovery. Mental illness puts both the body and mind at risk. Impaired brain function is a critical complication that warrants serious treatment and intervention. A proper diet can assist individuals striving to heal internally and externally.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the impact of a wholesome diet on brain health. Honoring your nutritional needs can even “reduce your risk for memory loss and confusion.” The Dietary Guidelines for Americans offer suggestions for maintaining a nutritious diet:

• Emphasize whole grains, fruits, and vegetables
• Incorporate a variety of protein sources
• Limit added sugars/saturated fats

CalAIM

LifeSpring has partnered with the California Department of Health Services to provide in-home meals designed specifically for the aging or unwell through the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal plan. The program offers numerous benefits to those looking to regain and maintain their health:

• Address poor health outcomes associated with food insecurity
• Provide complex care needs
• Support specialized dietary requirements
• Manage chronic conditions
• Reduce hospitalizations

DHCS studies have shown patients saving 16% in health care costs through MTMs, with individuals cutting $220 out of their spending per month. Countless patients have seen a decrease in medical complications and an increase in quality of life.

How Does LifeSpring Prepare a Medically Tailored Meal?

LifeSpring Home Nutrition was the first to create, prepare, and deliver medically tailored meals in California. One essential element of a specific medical diet is the guidance of a professional. Every meal is created in accordance with evidence-based guidelines under the supervision of a registered nutritionist. Customer consultations are available to anyone seeking more information about their dietary needs.

Delivering more than 100 million MTMs, LifeSpring Home Nutrition has sustained, served, and supported individuals for over two decades. Here are just a few of the specialized options available:

• Recovery and Rehabilitation Nutrition
• After Care Nutrition
• Special Dietary Accommodations
• Meals for the Maturing Body

The customized meal preparation process has been developed to allow you to order your food, your way. You can rest assured that you are receiving only the freshest, healthiest ingredients accessible. Whether you follow a heart-conscious, diabetic, lower sodium, renal, or vegetarian diet, your needs are valid and seen.

Beginning your individualized LifeSpring Home Nutrition journey is easy. Visit the website and make your way to the Order page. Utilize the “Narrow Your Search” tool to explore our medically tailored choices. Each meal is marked with color-coded labels to help you navigate the various available selections. If you have a medical condition or simply prefer certain meal modifications, there is an array of delicious selections for you.

What if I Do Not Require a Specific Diet?

If you or your loved ones are not currently in need of dietary accommodations, LifeSpring Home Nutrition can still provide meals to keep your body healthy and taste buds happy. Each meal is tailor-made to meet your needs, even if you’re simply looking for a delicious and nutritious dinner for your family.

If you were sick with the stomach flu, you probably wouldn’t eat the same foods you regularly consume. Nutritional needs can even vary for each individual from day to day. In the same way, personal preferences are always shifting and advancing. It’s never too early or too late to try something new.

The simplified ordering process offers the freedom and convenience you deserve. You can order as many or as few meals as you need and change your menu as often as you like. With breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack options to choose from, there are countless combinations for you to explore.

Medically tailored meals are designed by professionals to help individuals battling various health conditions and difficulties. Whether you struggle with chronic illness, mental health challenges, or complications that inevitably come with age, you may benefit from an intentionally designed diet. LifeSpring Home Nutrition joined together with CalOptima Health to plan, prepare, and deliver delicious, healthy food to people in need. With countless meal selections available for those with or without dietary restrictions, requirements, or goals, there is certainly an option for you and your family. Don’t settle for a meal plan that leaves your body and mind unfulfilled. Call LifeSpring Home Nutrition today at (800) 798-5767 and begin creating individualized meals to be delivered right to your door.