There are a number of ways in which a lack of access to nutritious foods will harm a community. One of those ways is the impact of ultra-processed foods on the brain. Ultra-processed foods will stimulate dopamine in the brain and make the consumer crave more of those products. In addition, communities will be faced with a variety of food-induced health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease. Often, these communities that are defined as food deserts are also at a distance from health centers, making access to care increasingly difficult. Yet, even when medical care is received, often the individual is blamed for their health problems rather than their zip code, creating a cycle of food-induced health problems. For example, a documentary by The Guardian cites that residents living in the wealthiest part of Greater Memphis live on average 13 years longer than residents in food deserts.
In contrast, having access to not only healthy foods but also access to nutrition education has a resounding impact on the livelihoods of residents in food deserts. Additionally, the organization of farmers' markets in food desert areas not only invites economic activity but also ensures immediate access to whole foods to residents.
