### Community Gardening: A Path to Better Health A recent study has shown that community gardening can significantly improve both physical and mental health. Despite the rise in wellness culture, many Americans still struggle to maintain a healthy lifestyle. According to the CDC, 6 in 10 Americans suffer from diet-related chronic illnesses such as heart disease, strokes, certain cancers, and type 2 diabetes. These conditions are largely preventable through proper diet and regular exercise. From 2017 to 2019, Dr. Jill Litt and her colleagues at the University of Colorado Boulder studied 37 community gardens in Colorado. They found that beginner gardeners experienced significant increases in fiber intake and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Additionally, there was a notable decrease in anxiety, especially among those who started with higher stress levels. Gardening offers a unique solution that moves away from traditional medical advice. It provides a social environment where people can connect while working, unlike more solitary activities like physical therapy. For example, Doug Wooley, who has spina bifida, found gardening to be a fun and engaging alternative to physical therapy. Dr. Litt hopes that the focus can shift from weight and obesity to overall well-being. She believes that building a healthy lifestyle involves balanced eating, stress relief, and physical activity, regardless of body type. In summary, community gardening presents a promising lifestyle intervention that can help people lead healthier, more active lives.