Healthy Food Access & Reproductive Care: It’s More Connected Than You Think
Our food system is one part of a health ecosystem that is out of balance.
The disruptions we see between food regulators, farmers, elected officials, consumers and sellers impact decisions people make in order to survive. And with food insecurity on the rise, Coloradans will continue to see inequitable access to affordable, and healthy food options.
Unfortunately, these decisions will inevitably impact other aspects of life for many, especially when it comes to reproductive care. Structural racism within our food system is harming mothers and children:
Food insecurity is linked to an increased risk for postpartum depression. Similarly, food insecurity has resulted in food deserts which limit access to grocery stores, farmer’s markets, and restaurants.
Healthy food can help prevent or mitigate poor birth outcomes, but it has been systematically denied to low-income and communities of color. A lack of land and capital available to Black and brown farmers, economic disinvestment and the history of redlining has led to food apartheid in these neighborhoods.
Health disparities caused by environmental and societal hardships have serious consequences and lasting impacts on our quality of life. Now we must invest in the long-term maternal and child health and well-being. ESPECIALLY, one month post the Supreme Court Decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Coloradans are lucky to have essential reproductive care secured but that's only the beginning to a balanced health ecosystem. Access to nutritious food, equitable policies, and safe housing, etc must be made a reality so that all Coloradans can thrive and lead happy lives.
We cannot ignore the interconnectedness of food access and reproductive care and the impact of families’ health. Our coalition will continue to share resources and uplift events and programs that will help us collectively create a place where we are safe, nourished, and enjoying a balanced system for all.