While individuals make choices about their eating and exercise habits, the environment in which they live affects their choices. According to research published by the American Journal of Public Health, African Americans living in neighborhoods with at least one supermarket were more likely to meet dietary guidelines for fruit and vegetable consumption and fat intake than African Americans living in neighborhoods without supermarkets. Having more supermarkets in the neighborhood resulted in even greater fruit and vegetable consumption.

Conversely, the lack of access to healthy foods can have adverse effects on individuals’ health. A diet poor in fruits and vegetables increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer and other illnesses that disproportionately affect people of color. Poor dietary behaviors also contribute to the obesity epidemic, which is increasing at an alarming rate nationwide.