Colorado Food Insecurity Explored

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) measure of hunger is “food-insecurity” -- defined as lack of access to enough food to fully meet basic needs due to lack of financial
resources. Studies have shown that food-insecure children are at higher risk of stunted
early development, physical health problems, and behavioral challenges.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment released a report this summer that  estimates the prevalence of food-insecurity among Colorado children and pregnant women and the relationship between food insecurity and obesity. 

Research demonstrates that food-insecurity can lead to weight gain, as the least expensive food options are typically high in calories and low in nutrients. Households with limited resources tend to spend less on healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables.

To learn more, go to Food-Insecurity Contributes to Obesity Among Colorado Children and Pregnant Women.