Challenges of Healthy Eating Habits in Rural Communities

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to utilize multiple case study to investigate the challenges
of healthy eating habits in rural communities in Arkansas, and to identify the differences between
these communities (Community A and B) that could be associated with overweight and
obese children. The findings suggested that healthy eating habits required a conscientious effort
on the part of the parents and/or guardians in urging the children to eat healthy. Parents and/
or guardians also needed to show good examples of healthy eating behaviors at home. In addition,
community leaders should be thinking of some modalities to enhance the food choices
or provide healthier choices in their community events and support underprivileged families to
help secure healthy food choices. This study also highlighted the importance of food corps and
health coalition group in the curtailment of overweight and obese children in rural communities.