To whom it may concern,
I am writing to you today to present a topic of concern regarding an epidemic affecting the lives of people all over the world — poor nutrition and its impact on health and longevity.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 60% of Americans have at least one chronic illness, many of which can be prevented through healthy lifestyle modifications. Due to the critical role diet plays in the prevention of disease, the Secretary of Health and Human Services plans to make nutrition courses mandatory for medical students.
A 27-year study by Afshin et. al. found that “diet is responsible for more deaths than any other risks globally,” surpassing smoking and high blood pressure. If this is the case, as a community, we are responsible to advocate for change.
This means better quality options at a lower price, more education and increased access regarding healthy food in the United States.
While it’s easy to say, “just eat healthier,” real-life barriers regarding education and affordability make it complex. Many people do not understand food labels, how to build a well-rounded meal or how to budget healthy foods. A good place to start is by incorporating whole foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains, while limiting processed foods and added sugars. Implementing small changes over time, such as adding a vegetable into each meal or cutting back on the weekly coffee runs, can make a huge difference.
These little adjustments, made consistently, can contribute to a positive change in our community’s health.
As a future nurse, I’m committed to advocating for my community and voicing concerns regarding the poor diet we have all been so accustomed to. To make a positive impact on the future of our health, it is the responsibility of local healthcare workers, schools, government programs and the media to provide factual and accessible information.
Yes, eating a nutritious diet is often more expensive and less convenient than the processed alternatives, but it is far more affordable than managing chronic illness. Healthy eating should be prioritized now, through education and policies, to prevent illness later.
Real change requires action from healthcare professionals to help educate the public, policymakers to make healthy foods more affordable and the people in the community to take control of their health now instead of later. The future health of our community depends on it.
Sincerely,
A YSU Nursing Student