The community food environment and its association with diet, health or weight status in Australia: A systematic review with recommendations for future research

Abstract

Issue addressed This study systematically reviewed Australian literature to determine if an association exists between geospatial exposure to food outlets and diet, health or weight status. Recommendations for future research are provided. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted in December 2021 using CINAHL Plus, PubMed and Web of Science databases. Data were extracted, as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. Study quality was assessed using an eight‐item checklist. A descriptive synthesis of study characteristics and findings was carried out, stratified via study outcomes. Results Of the 36 included articles, the majority were from Victoria (n = 19), involving adult participants (n = 30) and cross‐sectional in design (n = 27). Overall, associations were mainly null (nonsignificant) for diet (80%), weight status (75%) and health outcomes (90%). Significant findings were mixed with no positive trend with study quality. Conclusions Six recommendations are suggested to address current knowledge gaps and limitations in the Australian evidence base: (1) Conduct research on different populations; (2) Employ robust study designs that can test the impact of change over time; (3) Improve the accuracy of food outlet data sources; (4) Improve food outlet geospatial exposure measures; (5) Improve measurement of outcome variables; and (6) Incorporate theoretical models into study design and data analysis. So what? Improving the quality and consistency of research will be critical to informing locally relevant policy. Despite the present limitations in the evidence base, it is reasonable to assume that decisions to purchase and consume food are driven by availability and access. Thus, policy and planning aimed at improving the overall “healthiness” of the community food environment by increasing access to healthy food outlets is warranted to ensure that healthy options are easier choice for all.

Navigating sarcopenia in COVID‐19 patients and survivors: Understanding the long‐term consequences, transitioning from hospital to community with mechanisms and interventions for future preparedness

“…Moreover, specific dietary plans tailored to meet the needs of COVID-19 survivors can further enhance their nutritional status and reduce the risk of sarcopenia. 78,79 It is crucial to disseminate education and raise awareness about healthy diets, targeting individuals such as recovered COVID-19 patients and the community.…”

“…can identify areas for improvement and develop targeted strategies to enhance overall nutrition. 78,79 Regular physical activity is a crucial component in preventing and treating sarcopenia. 5,8 COVID-19 survivors should be encouraged to engage in regular physical activities to promote muscle strength and function.…”

“…In addition, healthcare providers should conduct nutritional assessments and consultations to address any eating complications and ensure a balanced diet. Moreover, specific dietary plans tailored to meet the needs of COVID‐19 survivors can further enhance their nutritional status and reduce the risk of sarcopenia 78,79 . It is crucial to disseminate education and raise awareness about healthy diets, targeting individuals such as recovered COVID‐19 patients and the community.…”

“…Furthermore, communities need to utilize food safety indexes to assess and monitor the nutritional quality and accessibility in each region 81 . By incorporating these indexes, communities can identify areas for improvement and develop targeted strategies to enhance overall nutrition 78,79 …”

“…Many communities face challenges in accessing fresh produce and other healthy food options due to limited availability and high costs after the pandemic 80 . To enhance access to nutritious foods, strategies, such as establishing neighborhood farmers' markets, and community gardens, and initiatives to improve food retail environments can be implemented 78,79 . Additionally, policies supporting the expenses of healthier foods, including government subsidies, tax incentives, supportive meal programs, and collaborations with the food industry, can improve community nutritional health.…”