There are several reasons behind the notion that policy changes, specifically making healthy food cheaper, can tackle the diabetes epidemic: 1. Affordability: Making healthy food more affordable enables individuals, particularly those with lower incomes, to access nutritious options. Lower prices can prompt people to choose healthier food over cheap, processed alternatives that are often high in sugar and unhealthy fats. 2. Encouraging healthier choices: Cheaper healthy food can incentivize individuals to opt for more balanced and nutritious meals. This can help reduce the consumption of sugary and processed foods, which are major contributors to the development of diabetes. 3. Preventive measure: By making healthy food more economical, policies can promote a culture of prevention. This approach could help reduce the risk factors for diabetes, including obesity, poor diet, and sedentary lifestyles. 4. Reducing socioeconomic disparities: Lowering the cost of nutritious food can help bridge the socioeconomic gap in terms of access to healthy options. It can ensure that even individuals from lower-income backgrounds have the opportunity to make healthier choices and prevent diabetes. 5. Long-term cost savings: While policy changes may involve initial investments, the potential long-term cost savings from reduced healthcare expenses related to diabetes treatment can be substantial. By implementing policy changes to make healthy food cheaper, governments and communities can take steps towards tackling the diabetes epidemic by promoting healthier choices and reducing risk factors.