Nutrition's role in extending healthspan: CRN-international symposium report

The annual CRN-International symposium, “Food Is Medicine: The Role of Nutrition in Extending Healthspan” sought to address the profound impact of dietary habits on health and healthy lifespan, as judicious nutritional choices can serve as a powerful tool for health promotion. A key question to consider with the “Food is Medicine (FIM)” movement is to what degree diet and nutrition regimes play a role in FIM efforts beyond treatment for morbidity and disease by contributing to resilience and extension of years people are healthy. A paradigm shift in healthcare policy and practice is necessary, recognizing nutrition and dietary interventions as foundational components of health care. Geography, cultural, and socioeconomic factors must be examined as integral parts of interventions that are sustainable and accessible to all, thereby democratizing health. Nutrition, including food, beverages, and dietary/food supplements, serves as a cornerstone of preventive medicine. Integration of nutritional strategies into the healthcare system is urgently needed so they are considered alongside medications, procedures, and tests, particularly for prevention and health promotion. There is a need for increased awareness and education about healthy dietary habits combined with policy changes that encourage such habits, contributing to an improved healthspan and quality of life.