Navajo Tax on Junk Food

By on March 31, 2015

may it not be long before this is seen as a blessing in disguise, rather than what first appears unfair. Especially to those struggling financially.

This 2% tax on junk food, perhaps a last resort, is a step in the right direction that only time will tell. Even smarter, is the elimination of a 5% sales tax on fruits and vegetables.

Monies earned/saved will be used not just wisely, but healthily!

“Revenues from the sin tax will reportedly be channeled toward community wellness projects like farmer’s markets, vegetable gardens and greenhouses in the 27,000 sq. mi. of Navajo reservation spanning from Arizona and New Mexico to Utah.”

Having just gone down Historic Route 66 and thru those states, and seen much of their beautiful culture this month, they’ve got the land to grow their own food forest. Since we all reap what we sow, why not give it our all in this game we call life. I’m sure Mother Earth would be delighted for them to get back to their roots of growing and preparing much of their own food. Being 1/2 Pascua Yaqui, I know.

While I agree that it can be difficult to eat healthily on a budget, I know it is not impossible. Having raised 4 children (ages 1, 5, 8 & 10) the year 2008 on an injury related disability income. Not only did it take less than a week to get their taste buds liking home cooked meals. Didn’t take long for 2 of the 4 to lose their excess weight without dieting.

Like any addiction, we crave what is in our blood. Eliminating junk food won’t just help stop the cravings, it’ll make it easier to think outside the box/packaged foods. Why pay for advertising you can’t eat? These advertisers know how to entice the taste buds. This however at the expense of your health.  Which is why the following scenario is not uncommon.

“For the $7 she could spend on a dozen apples, Neagle, 54, could stretch her dollar further in the prepared and processed food aisles: $7 would buy more than 30 boxes of Maruchan Ramen Noodles or seven frozen Banquet Value Meals.” ~Niguel Duara, LA Times.com~

More Money – Better Food – Less Waste

As grocery stores compete for business, more have begun adding bulk food sections. It’s not all healthy, but it sure beats paying for the fancy package you throw away. Buying in bulk allows anyone to get only what they need (in a plastic bag). To be put in their own refillable container/canisters.

By growing their own food, very little will need to be purchased. It may take time before it all falls into place. However, reservation/tribe or not–we owe it ourselves to NOT be so dependent on man made foods. Being able to grow and cook our own food is a long lost art. Not to mention, a gift of life that was handed down, generation after generation. PRE-packaged foods that is.

“Be still and the earth will speak to you.” ~Navajo Proverb~

It is more than possible for the younger generations to be healthier than 3 and 4 generations before them (once again), it is their birthright! Not what is sadly becoming all too common. This being, elders being healthier than much of todays youth.

Less can be more. Fewer packaged foods = less obesity, more energy, more money and better health.

About Carmen

Author, Coach, and Herbalsita POWERED BY: Real Food and barefoot walking/running. Connect with Carmen on Google+

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