What approach does IDPH take to improve public health nutrition?

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) employs a strategy focused on promoting access to healthy food options in underserved communities as a way to enhance public health nutrition. This approach aims to address dietary disparities often found in lower-income areas where access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and other healthy choices may be limited. By working to improve access, the IDPH seeks to empower individuals and families to make healthier food choices, ultimately leading to better nutritional outcomes and healthier populations.

This method recognizes that simply encouraging healthy eating is not sufficient if the underlying conditions that restrict access to nutritious foods are not addressed. By prioritizing efforts in underserved communities, the IDPH can more effectively combat nutrition-related health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, which are often more prevalent in these areas.