ABSTRACT
This chapter synthesises research on food practices, urban food landscapes and childhood obesity, and considers two examples of community gardens in Queensland, focusing on access to healthy food. It reflects on efforts that could raise awareness of healthy eating practices and begins to provide opportunities for children and families to reduce their risk of becoming overweight and obese. WHO recognises there is no single intervention strategy to prevent childhood obesity and solutions can come from three areas: governmental structures, population-wide policies and initiatives, and community-based interventions. Key barriers to children's healthy diets are availability, convenience, taste preferences, peer pressure and parental/school support. Knowledge of food and food production processes can directly influence food consumption, with increased knowledge of fruits and vegetables enhancing their consumption by children. The chapter concludes with recommendations for future research on urban green spaces and obesity.
