23/06/2022
Why is food insecurity a problem?
It places a substantial burden on our society through health care and social costs. People experiencing food insecurity often consume a nutrient-poor diet, which may contribute to the development of obesity, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and other chronic diseases.
People who live in food-insecure households also have difficulties in managing diet-related chronic conditions.
For example, people with type 2 diabetes may find themselves limited to purchasing inexpensive, high-calorie, nutritionally poor foods (eg, foods high in refined carbohydrates) instead of foods that are more healthful, such as vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
In addition, low-income families might postpone needed medical care to buy food or might underuse medicine because of budget constraints, which can result in expensive and avoidable hospitalizations.
