Access to Healthy Foods

> See IPA Health Policy Brief 3: Access to Healthy Foods in the Built Environment (PDF).

Introduction

Having access to healthy foods is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. A 2010 White House Task Force on Child Obesity report found an association between food insecurity and obesity. The report recommends a comprehensive approach to mobilize public- and private-sector resources to help all Americans make healthier food choices.

To establish a healthy diet, health professionals recommend the consumption of a variety of portion-controlled, natural food, which includes fresh produce, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and high-protein vegetables and meat. Nutritious eating and physical activity can provide individuals with proper nutrition and energy, the maintenance of optimal weight, and a lower risk of disease—including high blood pressure, cancer, and type-2 diabetes. The following are ways that local governments can help promote greater access to healthy foods:

Addressing and understanding “food deserts”
Supporting local farmers’ markets
Building community and urban gardens for school and public use
Developing programs that support affordable retail options and ultimately improve affordability for members of the community
Additional resources about access to healthy foods