Pop Culture

We’re No. 2.

Tennesseans drink more soda and sugar-added fruit drinks than any state except Mississippi.

Researchers have found a connection between drinking soda regularly and obesity, and currently Tennessee is America’s fourth most obese state.

Regular soda consumption has also been associated with health issues such as:

• Kidney problems
• Reproductive issues
• Osteoporosis
• Asthma
• Tooth decay

Farm Fresh for All Families

Tennessee is the fastest-growing state for farmers markets according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

And the abundance of fresh produce is increasingly available to all, with many farmers market vendors accepting EBT cards (food stamps).

Dr. Martha Buchanan, director of the Knox County Health Department, explains why this arrangement is a win-win:

“By helping farmers markets and farmers accept EBT cards, we’re not only increasing access to fresh fruits and vegetables for recipients, we’re also helping the local economy by supporting our farmers.”

Where There’s Smoke, There’s Harm

A new study suggests that parental smoking contributes to childhood poverty.

Money spent on smoking and its health consequences mean that there is less money for housing and general 
care of children.

In order to combat this, changes are being made in Tennessee.
 A pack of cigarettes now costs more and prices will continue to increase, thanks to a law that raises the minimum retail price mark-up on each pack.

Tennessee has one of the highest rates of smoking in the country; 6,000 Tennessee kids under 18 become new smokers each year.

Studies show that higher cigarette prices do effectively reduce consumption — smokers quit and potential smokers never start.

The expected result of higher cigarette prices in Tennessee: a 2.24 percent decrease in sales.

App Picking

People organize so much of their lives on their smartphones.

Many Tennessee state and city departments are there too, with free apps that help promote healthy actions.

Streaks for Small Starts

Governor’s Foundation for Health and Wellness

This app encourages small changes, like drinking water regularly or taking short walks, and tracks your progress.

PickTN

Tennessee Dept. of Agriculture

The PickTN app gives users detailed information about farms and farmers markets, plus recipes and food tips.

NashVitality

Metro Public Health Department

NashVitality helps participants track and log their mileage, while also showing nearby areas to walk, hike and bike.