We Grow More Healthy Fruits And Vegetables Here In The San Joaquin Valley Yet Have Some Of The Highest Rates Of Obesity

Photo courtesy of Andy West/Cumulus Media

The KAT Country 103 studios are one block north of the Stockton Metropolitan Airport and nestled between the airport and Hwy 99 is the biggest watermelon patch I’ve ever seen. Approximately 160 acres… watermelons as far as the eye can see. It’s all I can do to not stop and grab one and drive off but I don’t (because that would be stealing). It’s just a reminder that we are the bread basket to the world. No other region grows as much produce as we do from Bakersfield to Sacramento.

Why then do we have obesity rates in Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties (about 31% combined) that would put us in the top 10 states with the highest obesity rates in the country. According to EatThis.com California ranks 47th in obesity, one of those times you want to be at the bottom. Considering the stark difference in obesity in the interior of California vs. the Quinoa and Kale eaters on the coast, had it not been for us, California might have ranked dead last.

With the easy access to local fruits and vegetables (not to mention fantastic weather) what are we doing wrong?

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