According to data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the continued price rise has caused families to seek alternatives to traditional home-cooked meals. The prevalence of food insecurity has become alarmingly high, particularly among households with children. In 2021, eleven percent of adults in families with children reported that their household sometimes or often didn't get enough to eat in the last seven days. This is over 8.8 million children.

This shift in behavior is driven by the idea that dining out may offer a more cost-effective solution than purchasing groceries from stores.

Another area for improvement is the danger in low-income areas, making it difficult to run or exercise. With limited government funding in low-income areas, many need more access to workout facilities, leading to a decline in fitness. Shootings have increased steadily in these areas over the past 50 years, and many continue to worsen.

Low-Income Households: As previously stated, families who make under $60,000 a year have been forced to dine out at cheap fast-food restaurants because of rising food prices. Many cannot exercise because they live in dangerous areas and cannot afford gym memberships, and the government needs to spend money on public exercise spaces. This contributes to an overall unhealthy way of living with highly unhealthy caloric intake and little to no exercise within their day.

Middle-Class Households: As inflation grows, the middle class continues to dwindle, and our current state of the country looks more like a Rich upper class and a Poor lower class. However, the current consumer who identifies as middle class is reluctant to compromise on the quality and nutritional value of their purchases. Due to loyalty, many want to continue shopping at their favorite grocery stores; however, what has been noticed is a jump in couponing, online grocery apps, and choosing the cheapest store out of their favorite options. The middle class has still been able to exercise the same.

Upper-Class Households: Inflation has not impacted upper-class households as badly as lower-income families. Many are continuing to benefit from the current economy, and their health and exercise have not dwindled.

The inflation rates in the U.S. have skyrocketed, and as shown, many families are suffering from this issue. However, more than just the U.S. is in trouble. The global nature of the issue is evident in countries like Australia, Canada, and the U.K., where rising inflation and escalating grocery costs have prompted significant shifts in consumer behavior.

In the U.S., most shoppers have altered their shopping habits in response to rising prices, favoring discount stores and seeking opportunities to save costs. Similarly, in other countries, concerns about the affordability of groceries have surged, with a substantial proportion of the population finding it increasingly challenging to make ends meet.

It might feel like a losing battle to fight the rising inflation worldwide. At stake is our health, and it is crucial to fight through these times. There are many things to do that can fight the battle for our health.

1. At Home Workouts

Currently, Gym prices are at an all-time high, and middle-low-income families can no longer afford outrageous prices. The best option to continue working out is to work out at home. Due to COVID, many found online workout videos helpful while everything was shut down. However, with the impossibility to afford a gym, these are a great option! Many can burn up to 600 calories and can achieve your daily exercise goal.

2. Financial Assistance Programs

Explore government assistance programs and subsidies designed to support individuals and families facing financial hardships. Programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) can provide supplemental income or food assistance to eligible recipients.

3. Shop Smart!

You might think you are shopping without buying unnecessary items at the grocery store, but I guarantee everyone can cut back on unnecessary items! Focus more on perishables like fruits and vegetables rather than processed foods. Many times, these fruits and vegetables can be cheaper than the other processed foods. Additionally, buy only what is needed and focus on your health over what dessert you might want later.

4. Grocery Saving Apps and Couponing

Currently, grocery savings apps and coupons are on the rise, helping many save money on their groceries while still shopping at their favorite grocery stores. These apps can help by lowering prices back down to "normal."

The rising cost of food presents a challenge for individuals and families worldwide; they have been forced to create innovative solutions to ensure access to affordable and nutritious groceries. As consumers continue to navigate the difficulties of this issue, there is a pressing need for technologies and initiatives that empower them to make informed purchasing decisions.

Additionally, the difficulty of exercising in low-income areas has worsened as danger has increased and government spending on these areas has reduced. Food shopping and exercise must change to have an upward trend in positive health. Using savings apps and online workouts will contribute to this positive outcome.

Addressing this issue is the most important thing. It requires collaboration among policymakers, retailers, and technology providers to create a more inclusive and sustainable food economy for all.

Works Cited