Poverty and Nutrition in America Essay - 2234 Words

For most Americans, the word poverty means insufficient access to to housing, clothing and nutritious food that meet their needs for a healthy life. A consequence of poverty is a low socioeconomic status that leads to being exposed to poor nutrition. Since food and dietary choices are influenced by income, poverty and nutrition go hand in hand. There are many important factors that threaten the nutritional status of poor people. The number one factor is not having enough money to buy food of good quality and quantity. Not having enough money can have a profound impact on the diets of low-income people. Limited financial resources may force low income people to make difficult decisions about what kind and how much food to buy. Limited†¦show more content†¦That number rose by 40 million more people in less than three years. The links to good nutrition in diet and health are scientifically proved from many studies. Good and proper nutrition helps to maintain good health and prevent disease. A diet of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean and low fat meat, and dairy are essential for a healthy balanced diet. However, a well balanced does not include foods that contain added sugars, high sodium, saturated fat, and high caloric foods. Good nutrition is a valuable asset. Well fed people are more likely to be healthy and productive. Everyone benefits from good nutrition. The Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends eating a variety of foods to have good nutritional health. Dark green, yellow and orange vegetables and fruit should also be included in a good diet each day. They also suggest eating lean, low-fat meats and poultry, increase amounts of seafood, and healthy fats such as olive oil and omega-3 fatty oils but advise against eating trans and saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium. The USDA also recommends that at least half of the grains eaten should come from whole grains and not refined grains. (U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services). While most people know that eating well is important to staying healthy and for prolonging life, poverty makes it difficult to access good nutritious food. Easy access to abundant food is notShow MoreRelatedPoverty And Its Effects On Children Essay1111 Words   |  5 PagesEdgar Perez Mrs. Prince ENG 1113 16 November 2016 Poverty in America As of 2013 approximately 45 million people in America lived below the poverty line. In an average three-person household, an annual income of $20,090 is federally considered to be at poverty level. In the year of 2014, 44 percent of children under the age of 18 were living at or below the poverty level. Coming from a low economic standing can be detrimental for children’s physical and mental states. 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