A study published by The American Journal of American Nutrition looked at the effectiveness of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamp Program. The SNAP program cost taxpayers over $75 billion dollars in 2011. It is estimated one out of every seven Americans are enrolled in the program. There is no benefit within the program for individuals to purchase healthy, nutritionally dense foods versus sugary, low quality foods. It has also been suggested those enrolled in the SNAP program are at a greater risk for developing complex health issues such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes.
Overall, SNAP participants ingested more sugary, high starch foods that are commonly linked to diseases such as diabetes, obesity and heart disease. Another study concluded that SNAP participants had greater body fat content, greater incidence of high triglycerides, and metabolic syndrome. Whole fruit and green, leafy vegetable consumption is linked with decreased risk of Type II diabetes. Increased intake of sugar sweetened drinks is associated with metabolic syndrome and coronary artery disease.
The SNAP program aims to end hunger for low income individuals. Currently, by ending hunger, the program is increasing disease prevalence. The program is utilizing a significant amount of money to increase the prevalence of epidemic disease throughout the United States.
http://www.naturalnews.com/037830_food_stamps_diabetes_obesity.html
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