Prescribing Prevention: Doctors Turn to Lifestyle, Herbs and Veggies to Protect Against Chronic Illness in Black Californians

October 16, 2025

Leibo Glover's experience with diabetes leading to a below-the-knee amputation highlights a growing health crisis disproportionately affecting lower-income Californians. Research shows diabetes affects 1 in 6 adults with the lowest incomes compared to 1 in 11 with the highest incomes, with amputations more common in low-income ZIP codes. Dr. Bill Releford, a Los Angeles podiatrist, has responded by establishing Bloom Ranch, a 250-acre farm in Acton that serves as part of his preventive care strategy to address these disparities.

Who is affected

Nearly 3.5 million Californians diagnosed with diabetes, primarily with preventable Type 2 diabetes
Black Californians disproportionately impacted by chronic illnesses leading to preventable amputations
Low-income residents (1 in 6 adults with lowest incomes have diabetes vs. 1 in 11 with highest incomes)
Older adults age 65 and over (22.3% have diabetes, about twice the rate of adults age 18-64)
Residents of low-income ZIP codes (more likely to have lower-limb amputations)
People in food deserts across Los Angeles County
8.8 million Californians (more than 1 in 5) struggling with food insecurity

What action is being taken

Dr. Bill Releford is operating Bloom Ranch, the largest Black-owned farm in L.A. County, as part of his preventive care strategy
Doctors are expanding from treatment to prevention, including promoting diet and lifestyle changes
Peer-to-peer support programs with self-management training are being utilized by doctors for patients with chronic conditions
Bloom Ranch is working to make fresh fruits and vegetables more accessible to food deserts in Los Angeles County
Telehealth options are being developed to increase healthcare accessibility

Why it matters

75% of amputations are preventable, yet African Americans have the highest amputation rate in the nation
The mortality rate for high-level amputation is 50% within three years
California produces nearly half of the nation's fruits and vegetables, yet food insecurity remains high
Gardening and access to fresh produce offer numerous health benefits including potential decreased risk of dementia, enhanced cognition, reduced stress, and boosted immunity
Preventive approaches can reduce healthcare disparities and improve outcomes for vulnerable populations
Certain vegetables and herbs can naturally lower blood pressure and provide other health benefits

What's next

Dr. Releford plans to partner with UCLA and Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science to develop prescriptive vegetable boxes
The Bloom Ranch model may be replicated across other urban areas
No explicit next steps stated in the article beyond these partnerships and potential replication

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint