Ep 8: The Myth of "Just Try Harder" - The Social Determinants of Health

We've all heard "just eat better", but what if the real barrier isn't motivation? In this episode, we break down the social determinants of health, food insecurity, and why your zip code can matter more than your willpower when it comes to nutrition and mental health. Plus: a look at real resources that can help.Time Stamps:(00:00) Intro, dumpster diving, and dichotomy between social media and real life(04:22) What are the social determinants of health?(12:09) A look at food security and mental well-being(26:36) Food security and childhood outcomes(28:10) The Socio-ecological model and why it matters for personal responsibility(38:00) Resources, quick overview of social programs, community support, and things we can actually do(51:27) Wrapping it up and the Dietitian Word of WisdomConnect:A huge thank you to our listeners for supporting us on this new adventure! We’re still figuring things out, so if you hear strange audio or a few awkward pauses… just know it’s part of the real, unfiltered journey :)Want to stick with us as we grow? Hit the like and subscribe buttons to catch every new episode and get more tips and real talk on nutrition and mental health!You can also follow us on instagram or TikTok! Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listening does not establish a provider–patient relationship. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.Research: 1. WHO Social Determinants of Health https://www.who.int/health-topics/social-determinants-of-health#tab=tab_12. USDA Food Securityhttps://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/food-nutrition-assistance/food-security-in-the-us/measurement3. Food Insecurity and Mental Health Status: A Global Analysis of 149 Countrieshttps://www.ajpmonline.org/article/S0749-3797%2817%2930243-X/fulltext4. Food Insecurity Affects School Children’s Academic Performance, Weight Gain, and Social Skills https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022316622105109