While studying for my bachelors of science in nutrition, I spent several semesters learning about behavioral change and public health and how they both relate to nutrition. Below you will find my educated opinion on the COVID-19 pandemic.

The current pandemic is a product of the society we live in. Why has it impacted the US so much more than other countries? Because here in America, those with less resources, those living with food insecurity and those trapped in generational poverty are left to rot. We turn our backs on them and let them fend for themselves. Food insecurity, food deserts & fast food swamps combined with lack of access to healthcare and generations of stress creates a breeding ground for chronic disease. For a population with already high rates of chronic disease, a virus like COVID-19 becomes devastating. And now, they have become a burden for society as these populations are contracting and dying of COVID at a much higher rate.

The best part? Everyone is so focused on where the virus came from, how it’s being handled, the politics, the vaccine.. and everyone is distracted from what has been exposed: our crumbling society. The cracks are there, in plain sight now more than ever, and yet, we all want to argue about the efficacy of masks when we should really be arguing about HOW DO WE MOVE FORWARD AND PROMOTE CHANGE? A vaccine won’t save you, masks won’t save you, superfoods and vitamins won’t save you! A healthier population will save you. And the only way the population can be healthier is by working together and healing together. We need to change the food system. We all need to have access to healthcare. We need policy change. This is why public health funding and support is so important. 

Don’t like how our public health experts are handling it? Consider who is in charge and who put them in charge. Now consider the fact that they were in charge of public health prior to COVID and they too turned their backs on the communities they are meant to serve. 

Vote. More importantly, vote with your dollars. Give your money to places that deserve it. We have so much power as consumers, and yet, we feel powerless. Support small, local businesses, not large corporations. Support businesses and programs that are working to better your community. Purchase quality food from vendors that use sustainable practices. Shop for products made in the USA. Don’t buy cheap crap. You, as the consumer, have ALL of the power.