Richer & Fatter?

Richer and….Fatter?

A rising standard of living has a vast majority of benefits for the people that are a part of it; longer life span, more food choices, improved housing, better infrastructure, and a higher quality of life overall. The last several decades have seen an era of unprecedented growth around the world as developed, developing, and emerging markets alike have taken large steps forward in economic growth. One critical link in this economic development is something that does not get as much as coverage as it possibly should.

The food.

Higher standards of living, economic growth, and a growing economy overall lead to a wider variety of food choices; both healthy and unhealthy. Better diets with more fruits, vegetables, and vitamins lead to better health, lower medical expenses, and a more productive (and healthier) economy. Like everything else, however, economics impact the food business, and in light of the economic financial crisis, many governments (and people) cut spending on healthier food choices. A side effect of increased growth has been the proliferation of fast-food restaurants around the world.

With lower prices, tasty offerings, and convenience, these less healthy and abundantly available options are becoming a larger and larger part of consumer diets in many countries.

So, how does a county get rich without getting fat?

http://www.nydailynews.com/life-style/health/countries-richer-inhabitants-fatter-oecd-article-1.1807336#ixzz32xLDuJJv