An unexpected factor in the obesity epidemic

Here’s an unsettling thought about obesity in America…

Poverty may be one of the driving forces behind out-of- control consumption of simple carbs, added sugars, and highly refined foods.

On one hand, there’s no excuse for bad choices. On the other, the range of choices are very narrow for the poor.

In a recent article, Mark Hyman, M.D., notes that quality food has become much more expensive than processed foods. For instance, soft drink prices have gone up 20 percent since 1995, and products with added sugars have gone up about 45 percent. But during that same time, fresh fruits and vegetable prices have soared nearly 120 percent.

Another example: For $1 you can purchase 1,200 calories in the form of cookies or potato chips. But $1 of carrots supplies only 250 calories. Not to mention that cookies and chips are a lot easier to serve and you’re guaranteed your kids will eat them. That’s obviously not the best choice, but when money is tight, you certainly can’t afford to waste it on something they won’t eat.

And so the cycle begins…

To Your Good Health,

Jenny Thompson

Sources:
“The Link Between Poverty, obesity and Diabetes” Mark Hyman, M.D., Huffington Post, 9/18/10, huffingtonpost.com