How to shift from urban food desserts to stronger community structures?

Abstract

In this day and age what you eat and how you eat greatly impacts your personal health. Dieting and exercising are two factors that contribute to one's overall health. However, what do you do when you do not have access to basic necessities for a healthy lifestyle? What happens to your quality of life when you are unable to meet these necessities? For so many Americans this is their reality because they live in what is known as a food desert. A food desert is a geographical location where residents in urban areas do not have access to affordable, nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables. Typically, food deserts there is a 4:1 ratio for liquor stores and gas stations to grocery stores. This is an unfortunate living situation for many Americans living in poverty. There is a connection between food deserts and low income communities. Knowing there is a connection, how do we address this matter? This literature review looks to address the issue of what is being done to address food deserts! We will explore how health policies, economic development, and government officials all contribute to the effects of food deserts. The research conducted will consider each of these factors and determine what it’s role is in addressing food deserts. In this essay we will be taking a look at Chicago. This city unfortunately has an ongoing issue with food deserts affecting its neighborhoods. The research will determine that although this issue has been addressed, there is not much programming to solve that matter. I will explore the disservice happening to these communities and discuss how we can better these communities affected by food deserts.