Malnutrition in metropolitan areas

Written by: Alejandro Pineda Catalan

As humanity takes leaps and bounds regarding technology, infrastructure, communication, and transportation, many individuals still struggle with obtaining foods that hold the proper nutrition required for the average human body. This may be a surprise to most who live in areas where grocery stores are minutes away from their homes. Grocery stores that hold fresh produce, baked goods, dairy, meats, and even pharmacies. Some take this for granted, while others cherish easy access to nutritious, fresh goods.

As stated in an article from the USDA, 53.6 million individuals, or 17.4 percent of the US population, live in low-access food desert areas. Many live in regions with limited access to healthful and affordable foods. This includes low-income individuals who travel far distances to find healthy food options. Various factors, including food insecurity, racial segregation, proximity to supermarkets, and access to transportation, cause food deserts. These discrepancies stem directly from zoning laws and housing. Evidence found that a lack of fresh produce can result in illness. Food deserts are associated with more individuals suffering from cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and other health and weight-

related conditions. Children are at greater risk since they need nutrients in certain foods that allow them to grow and prevail appropriately. Children trapped in these specific zip codes can again be victims of obesity, early hypertension, and high blood pressure, leading to type two diabetes. Not only does this raise concern, but it can be attributed to the upsurge in how unhealthy America has become. Attention must be brought to this issue to reduce health and social struggles within our communities. 

Food deserts do not only occur in poor cities. Some of the most known and booming cities have an abundance of food deserts scattered all over. These cities include Atlanta, New York City, Detroit, Chicago, and even sunny California with San Francisco. It is such a broad, nationwide issue hidden in plain sight, which makes it more worrisome to those who pay close attention to how to combat this issue. There are attempts at solutions to this controversy as the federal government is taking action to fight against the growing concerns of food deserts. Welfare programs ensure the right to a well-balanced diet and reduced prices. Programs include SNAP, known as food stamps, which are the most used today and provide a monthly amount to families in need. WIC is also a popular option for women, infants, and children. This federal assistance program holds healthcare referrals, nutrition education, and children’s health care and wellness until age five. While there was an increase of 21% in benefits from programs such as the ones spoken about, we are still seeing a rise in obesity, malnutrition, and other weight and health-related illnesses.

The question is whether the government is doing enough to help those in need. There need to be community leaders who want change. Change comes when leaders are hands-on and create their solutions. Food banks, community gardens, the building of local food markets, and additional food programs that local restaurants can contribute are possibilities. Food justice is easier said than done, and it will take great efforts to create and see a shift in what we now know as food deserts.