There are many benefits to following a nutritious eating pattern and lifestyle. Nutritious eating patterns reduce the risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. A nutritious eating pattern focuses on foods and drinks that are high in nutrients and limits food high in added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium. Healthy eating patterns include foods that fit personal preferences, cultural traditions, and budget considerations. See the image below for daily food group recommendations to promote health In 2019 10.9% of people in the US were food insecure. Food insecurity means that a person/family does not have access to enough healthy food. Food insecurity has increased because of COVID-19. The Open Door has increased its programs to help fill the need and the Garden to Table program is one of them. Community gardens improve access to fresh produce. Working in the gardens is a great way to activity levels and can teach us about food. People who garden feel more confident about including produce in their daily eating pattern. Community gardens also have social benefits such as building relationships
and improving self-esteem.