Rural Health Matters: Navigating Nutrition in ‘Food Deserts’

Dr. Jeffrey Gold discuss nutrition challenges in rural communities, barriers to healthy food access, and ways to improve dietary outcomes this week on Rural Health Matters.

southwest_arizona desert sunset catus_adobe stock.png

Adobe Stock

OMAHA, NEB. (RFD NEWS) — Nutrition remains a top concern for many consumers, especially in rural communities where barriers to meeting dietary needs can be more pronounced. Dr. Jeffrey Gold, president of the University of Nebraska, joined us for this week’s Rural Health Matters segment to discuss challenges surrounding nutrition in rural areas.

In his conversation with RFD News, Dr. Gold addressed whether rural populations face greater difficulty meeting their dietary needs than their urban counterparts. He also discussed the concept of “food deserts” and ways individuals and communities can work to improve access to healthier food options.

Finally, Dr. Gold shared final thoughts on the importance of prioritizing nutrition and finding practical ways to support healthier lifestyles in rural America.

For those with questions or seeking guidance on rural health, nutrition and rural food security, Dr. Gold welcomes you to reach out via email at [email protected].

Related Stories
A stalled World Trade Organization appeals body increases long-term trade policy risk for U.S. agriculture.
Three junior heifer exhibitors continue their trek through the Texas Swing at the San Antonio Stock Show, balancing competition, friendship, and life on the road.
Lynn County 4-H students showcase robotics and STEM skills at the San Antonio Stock Show, highlighting how ag education programs are preparing the next generation in agritech.
University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold discusses lingering winter illnesses, shares strategies to boost immunity, and advises rural communities on when to seek medical care on Rural Health Matters.
Nick Westgerdes of the American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers breaks down farmland values, rental rates, and sales trends in Illinois, while previewing the upcoming land values conference for 2026.
As National FFA Week continues, Ag Teacher Appreciation Day serves as a reminder of the lasting impact ag educators have on students, communities, and the future of American agriculture.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Jeramy Stephens with National Land Realty explains how the Supreme Court’s tariff ruling and ongoing ‘America First’ trade policy raise new questions about U.S. farmland values and agricultural market stability.
Heavy cattle weights are cushioning beef supplies despite shrinking herd numbers.
Purdue University’s Dr. Michael Langemeier discusses the survey’s findings in February and broader signals in the months ahead.
Roger McEowen of Washburn University School of Law joined us to discuss key legal and tax issues ranchers should consider as they recover from recent prairie fires across the Southern Plains.
Texas lawmakers secure funding for sterile fly production as officials work to stop the New World screwworm from spreading into the U.S. cattle herd.
Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding discusses the recent surge in bird flu cases, the state’s expanded biosecurity response and efforts to support poultry producers.
More Shows
Check out FFA Today, a fun and fast-paced show featuring fascinating stories about amazing kids and unique agriculture industries.
Farmweek is broadcast from Mississippi, one of the South’s most geographically diverse states. The Magnolia State’s most important resource is its people—and about a fourth of the state’s population hold jobs tied to agriculture.
FarmHER + RanchHER on RFD-TV is working to change how people perceive a farmer by sharing the stories of the women who live and lead in agriculture.
“DocTalk” with host Dr. Dan Thomson will be teaming up with practitioners around the country to tackle issues with your livestock.
This high-yield corn contest showcases real-life Corn Warriors dealing with elements that every farmer knows well. Get an authentic look at what it takes to compete in a high-yield corn contest, and see who will take the title of Corn King.
As the trusted voice of the U.S. cattle and beef industry, the National Cattlemen Beef Association strives to share timely, relevant news. NCBA’s “Cattlemen to Cattlemen” is the leading TV show for beef producers to receive cattle industry news, education, and information.
America’s Heartland brings positive, heartfelt stories about American agriculture to viewers in both urban and rural areas.
Hosted by Pam Minick, “The American Rancher” focuses on the people and places that make ranching an American lifestyle. This half-hour magazine format series features livestock producers and their ranches, animals, and ranching practices.
For the latest information on how to take your operation from good to great, tune into Ag PhD. The program includes a wide range of agronomic information from how to maximize your fertilizer program & tiling to stopping those yield-robbing insects and crop diseases and more.