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Menu labeling is one important tool at our disposal to help people make healthier choices.  We must also recognize the overwhelming body of research that demonstrates the other profound effects that our environment plays in shaping our opportunities for daily physical activity and access to healthful nutrition, including:

• communities designed for exclusive reliance on automobiles rather than multiple modes of active transportation;
• billions of dollars in agricultural subsidies that keep the cost of processed obesogenic foods artificially low compared to fruits, vegetables and whole grains;
• whether or not the nutritional options in your neighborhood include full-service supermarkets and community gardens vs. fast food and convenience stores;
• and access to parks and trails.

All of these environmental factors result from policy choices at the federal, state and local levels.  If we elect policy makers who will take health into consideration when making these decisions, we will all be much better off.

posted 3 years, 1 month ago
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