Food Insecurity Linked to Nerve Damage & SNAP Disruption Under Government Shutdown

Food insecurity linked to nerve damage and delayed SNAP benefits are emerging crises in the United States. New research shows food insecurity increases nerve damage risk by 48% among Hispanic adults. At the same time, the government shutdown and dispute over SNAP funding are delaying food stamp benefits for millions, raising serious concerns about health, hunger and household stability.

Research: Food Insecurity and Health Risk

• A study by Michigan State University found that among U.S. adults, those experiencing food insecurity had 48% higher odds of developing peripheral neuropathy compared with food‑secure peers.

• Nearly 20 million Americans live with peripheral neuropathy. Food insecurity remained a significant risk after accounting for diabetes, obesity and other known factors.

• The findings underline a link between hunger and long‑term health outcomes.

SNAP Benefits: Delays and Disruptions

• The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) serves about 42 million Americans each month.

• Amid the government shutdown and funding gap, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) warned states of potential delays in November SNAP issuance.

• The U.S. Supreme Court temporarily paused a lower court order compelling full benefit issuance, allowing partial payment while the appeal proceeds.

Why This Matters for Food Insecurity

• Delayed SNAP benefits increase dependence on food banks and emergency assistance, creating deeper hunger risks.

• Health consequences of food insecurity, like increased nerve damage, highlight that hunger is not only about meals but long‑term wellness.

• States with halted or partial SNAP payments face spikes in food insecurity, especially among low‑income families.

How Heritage Foundation USA Is Responding

• We support food banks and community partners managing increased demand from SNAP delays.

• We advocate for ensuring SNAP benefits are issued without interruption to protect millions of families from hunger and health decline.

How You Can Help

1. Contact your representative and urge full, uninterrupted SNAP issuance.

2. Donate to local food banks facing surge from benefit delays.

3. Share this article to raise awareness: hunger links to health and assistance policy.

4. Call your lawmakers at 1-888-598-7257 to end the government shutdown.