Battle of the bulge: Grocery Stores V. Fast Food Restaurants

by Aimee Keenan-Greene

Does better access to supermarkets help battle obesity in low-income neighborhoods?

A new study, published in the current Archives of Internal Medicine, says no -  food consumers didn't improve their diet by eating more fruits and vegetables. Still a major factor in their food choices scientists say - proximity to fast food.

The study followed thousands of shoppers in major cities for 15 years.

Earlier this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said children need improved food access, regulations and policies to promote healthy eating and fight childhood obesity.

They released the 2011 Children's Food Environment State Indicator Report.

Thirty-two states scored at or below the national average for the Modified Retail Food Environment Index. 

The  CDC says States, communities, child care facilities and schools all have roles to play in improving these numbers because childhood obesity affects approximately 12.5 million children and teens nationwide.