In the US, we subsidize the growth of commodity crops such as corn and soy. These crops are feed to livestock or industry creates ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup and oils that are put in the junkiest foods we consume (sodas, French fries etc.). This is why crummy junk food is cheaper than fruits and veggies and other healthy foods.

New research published in JAMA Internal Medicine shows that Americans who consume these foods weigh more, have a higher level of inflammation, and are more likely to develop diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

So in essence, our tax dollars are paying for food that makes us sick! It would be nice if they subsidized the growth of fruits and veggies instead.

You can see the original research here and also an article about the issue here in Mother Jones.

Copyright 2016 Carole Bartolotto, MA, RD. All rights reserved.