Cheaper produce = Slimmer Americans?

(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-06-29 16:11

A group of scientists at the University of Illinois conducted a study on how food prices affect the body weight of Americans. They found that raising the prices of unhealthy foods and lowering the prices of healthy foods is associated with lower body weight and a reduced risk of obesity.

Here’s an interesting distinction…the study found that small taxes on unhealthy foods, such as sugary soda, “are not likely to produce substantial changes in BMI or obesity prevalence,” but “nontrivial pricing intervention” could have a substantial effect on our weight. So, taxing unhealthy foods won’t work, but reducing the prices will.

This research really caught my eye. I know a lot of people who would be ecstatic if fruits and vegetables were cheaper. I know I’d do a happy dance! However, I don’t think this is the perfect solution for America’s healthy eating issues. We need to educate ourselves on how eating healthy prevents disease and improves our daily life and mental alertness. It can’t be just about the price. I think people will continue to make bad choices until they truly understand the effects food has on our minds and bodies.