The Hygge Nurse

Dear Hygge Abode Community, ​ Before we dive in, I just want to take a moment to honor you.​ ​ Whether you’re a caregiver, a community leader, a busy parent, or someone simply trying to make thoughtful, nourishing choices—you’re here because you care. You care about wellness, about what’s real and evidence-based, and about building a better world not just for yourself, but for your family and your neighbors. That kind of care is powerful. And I’m so grateful to be in community with people like you.

Why I’m Talking About Academic Research Today

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on a growing wave of mistrust surrounding science—something I’ve felt both personally and professionally. From headlines questioning public health guidance to proposed funding cuts for health research programs, it’s clear that our academic institutions are under pressure. And as someone whose work exists at the intersection of science, health equity, and community well-being, I wanted to pause and offer some perspective.

Because when we lose trust in research, or when academic freedom is limited, the ripple effects are real: fewer community-based programs that work, slower innovation in chronic disease care, and more barriers for people trying to access help. So today, I wanted to pull back the curtain a bit and share why research matters—and how it already shows up in your life in meaningful ways.

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Why Academic Research Matters to You

Academic research is the quiet engine behind nearly every health advance—from better treatments and policy change to simple yet powerful shifts like prescribing fresh food to patients. It’s what allows us to test bold ideas, challenge the status quo, and make care more compassionate and effective.

My own research has explored:

• how produce prescriptions improve health for people living with hypertension and food insecurity,
• how caregivers of people with dementia navigate fragmented systems,
• how communities respond to crises like the Winston-Salem fertilizer plant fire,
• and how patients experience the rollout of programs like North Carolina’s Medicaid Transformation.​

Each of these studies tells a human story. And every one was made possible by academic freedom and community collaboration.

But That Research Is Being Threatened

Today, that ability to pursue unbiased, community-grounded science is under attack. Political pressures, misinformation, and budget cuts threaten the systems that protect research integrity. And when that happens, it’s not just data we lose—it’s progress.

You, as a consumer, lose access to proven programs. Clinicians lose tools to help their patients. Communities lose momentum toward equity.

What You Can Do to Help

You don’t have to be a scientist to stand up for science. Here are a few simple ways to support the health of our communities:

• Stay Curious & Informed: Follow evidence-based voices and be mindful of where you get health info. Ask, “Is this backed by research?”
• Share What You Learn: Forward articles, podcast episodes, and infographics that uplift accurate information and community-driven research.
• Support Local Research Institutions: From attending community events to volunteering in pilot programs, your involvement matters.
• Advocate: Reach out to elected officials and encourage them to protect funding for public research. Support leaders who believe in science-based policy.
• Speak Up: When you hear misinformation—especially around wellness or healthcare—kindly offer a more accurate source. You never know who’s listening.

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Explore More on Food as Medicine If you're curious about how research is reshaping the way we view nutrition and health, here are a few powerful resources: Medically Tailored Meals Can Save Lives and Costs​ ​ A study from the Food is Medicine Institute found these meals could save the U.S. over $32 billion annually and prevent 3.5 million hospitalizations.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

I’ve shared more about why academic research matters in my latest blog post—including how we protect it, why it’s worth fighting for, and how my own work as a nurse researcher continues to be shaped by the communities I serve.

👉 Click here to read the full blog​

With warmth and deep gratitude,
​Rachel Zimmer, RN, DNP​
Nurse Researcher | Founder of The Hygge Nurse

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