A healthy diet can improve overall health and reduce the risk of a number of diseases and conditions. But how does food actually affect your health? Sadly, most of us simply don’t think about it. This lack of awareness can lead to health problems down the line. The truth is, good nutrition is essential to a healthy life. Fortunately, there are many public health interventions to help you get your fill of fruits and veggies. Thankfully, the benefits of eating well last a lifetime.
It is not surprising that food can influence your health, especially when you live in a low-income neighborhood. In fact, access to nutritious foods is limited for some consumers, particularly those with irregular work hours. So how does a poor person decide on what to eat? Several studies have looked at how different factors like income, education, and housing influence food choices. While the effects vary greatly, one thing is certain: there is no substitute for a healthy, well-balanced meal. Some of the more sophisticated solutions involve a combination of educational and social interventions.
Despite these measures, improving access to healthy food doesn’t necessarily translate into a higher consumption of these foods. What is more, the majority of food is still eaten in the home. However, a bit of education can improve your odds of consuming healthier foods.
For instance, in a recent study, social support from within the household was associated with improved fruit and vegetable consumption. Moreover, the presence of social proof may also motivate some consumers to try more adventurous dishes.