1 in 3 Homeless is Obese
While the popularized image of a homeless individual is one of skin and bones, a new study shows the reality is not so. One in three (32.3%) homeless individuals in the United States is obese, highlighting a hunger-obesity paradox.
The paradox is that hunger and obesity can exist in the same person. And although a person may be overweight or obese, he or she can lack proper nutrition.
…The human body might be hoarding calories, as an adaptive response when people do not consistently have enough to eat. The body’s response could contribute to obesity, by “becoming more efficient at storing more calories as fat,” according to the report. Also, people who are homeless are more likely to suffer from a lack of sleep and high stress, which contribute to obesity.
When it comes to food choices, they do not have many. Even if they had fresh vegetables and fruits, they have to way to store them or prepare them.
“Homeless people don’t have the ability to choose,” said Dipietro. “They eat what they’re given…The kinds of foods served at soup kitchens are designed to feed the masses at a cheap, low price,” she added.
Audio discussion of the study available from “The Take Away,” below:
June 1, 2012
Just got a chance to listen to the discussion. Interesting information. I never really thought about the quality of food for those who don’t have a lot of choice.
It does seem logical when you just eat what ever is available, that you wont always have good nutrition.
Yet another problem facing the health of America.
June 1, 2012
I can’t speak for what soup kitchens serve, but I’ve participated in a fair number of food drives for organizations that distribute food to low-income people. Unfortunately, a LOT of crap food gets donated: bagged, generic sugary cereals, boxed mac and cheese, “Spaghetti-O’s”, canned soup, ramen, stuffing mix, instant mashed potatoes etc. It makes sense, in a way: you have to donate non-perishable items; and buying inexpensive items stretches your donation dollars. But I stopped doing that long ago: instead, I’ll donate things like canned, water packed tuna, whole grain pasta, nuts/peanut butter, reduced-sodium canned lentil or split pea soup, and so on.
I also donate to Second Harvest, which helps to distribute fresh produce to those in need.
More nutritionally-dense, alternatives aren’t as cheap or easy to find, but low-income folks need nutritious food, too.
June 2, 2012
That’s a fantastic idea. I have donated many times before and went the bang-for-the-buck route. I never thought about the quality of the food. Next time I will follow your example and go the better way.
I also donate to Second Harvest. I think they do a great service.