Health-promoting environments

Fast food, ready-to-eat meals, and sedentary lifestyles not only affect body weight but also contribute to the development of numerous chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and various types of cancer.

The physical, sociocultural, economic, and political environments in which we live strongly influence our lifestyle choices and behaviors. It is evident that the current social organization presents several barriers to the adoption of healthy eating and active living. For example, the accessibility and visibility of highly processed, low-nutrient foods (such as chips and sugary drinks) in certain settings can make it more difficult to choose healthy options. Conversely, the implementation of infrastructures that support healthy lifestyles—such as bike paths, workplace fitness facilities, and school food policies—are all strategies that help facilitate healthier choices among the population.

Therefore, modifying the four key environments—physical, sociocultural, economic, and political—is essential to support the adoption of healthy habits and to discourage less healthy ones.