Poverty can significantly contribute to poor nutrition in several ways:
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Limited Access to Healthy Foods: Individuals and families living in poverty often have restricted access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-rich foods. Financial constraints may lead them to opt for cheaper, calorie-dense, and processed foods that are low in nutritional value. Additionally, food deserts—areas with little access to supermarkets—can exacerbate this issue.
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Insufficient Financial Resources: The lack of adequate financial resources means that families may prioritize spending on basic necessities, such as housing and utilities, over purchasing healthy food. This can lead to food insecurity, where individuals may not have enough food or may rely on unhealthy food options due to their lower costs.
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Limited Education and Awareness: People living in poverty may have less access to nutrition education and resources that inform them about healthy eating choices. Without knowledge of proper nutrition and cooking skills, they may struggle to make informed food choices, leading to diets that lack essential nutrients.
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