Americans need healthier diets

Obesity and chronic disease are rampant in our community and nationwide. Americans make poor food choices every day.

This is because so much junk food advertising is aimed at our children and much of the food that is available and easily accessible is highly processed and full of fat, sugar and sodium. This has to stop. The health of our nation depends on facilitating healthier diets for Americans.

I want access to good, healthy and affordable food that allows me and my family to feel good and live an active life while helping the local economy and promoting sustainable food systems. All Americans should have access to food that is safe and good for them, food that has been produced in a way that is humane, gentle on the environment and good for the economy.

This is why I'm an advocate of Food Day on Oct. 24. Food Day is a grassroots effort that aims to begin the conversation with our neighbors and leaders about the food we eat, how it's produced and marketed, who can afford it and how it impacts the environment and economy.

On Oct. 24 thousands of people nationwide will join together to advocate for change. Together, we can demand healthy food that is produced in a safe, humane and sustainable way for ourselves, our families and our neighbors. It's time to “Eat Real, America.” For more information, check out www.FoodDay.org.

Cheryl Chapman

Yuma