Why do food shortages occur?

I keep hearing that there is a global food shortage affecting over 238 million people around the world. What is causing this, and is there anything we can do to help people who are experiencing food shortages?

— Lorraine Y., Scranton,

Pennsylvania

DEAR HELOISE >>

There are about three main factors that contribue to food shortages:

• Conflict: This is the main reason for food insecurity. It disrupts food sources from reaching their intended market and cuts into income, which all lead to higher food prices. It is also considered a weapon of war when food is cut off. A starving population will, in time, surrender.

• Economic crisis: Poorer countries do not have the ability to import vast quantities of food. This is where humanitarian aid is needed the most.

• Weather conditions: The whole Earth is experiencing the affects of climate change. Flooding, droughts, hurricanes and more have taken a toll on

DEAR LORRAINE >>

food production. Bad weather directly impacts both crops and livestock.

Each of us can help by reducing food waste, increasing our awareness of hunger and donating to organizations that rush food to places where it’s so desperately needed.

DEAR HELOISE >> Which is better for our health: sweet or regular potatoes? — Eleanor T., Cottage Grove, Minnesota

DEAR ELEANOR >> Both types of potato have nutritional value, but sweet potatoes have a very high amount of vitamin A. They can also lower your glycemic index, which simply means that they are less likely to cause a spike in your blood sugar levels.

As a side note, if you are looking for the healthiest potatoes, red Desiree potatoes are the highest in vitamins and minerals.

DEAR HELOISE >> Why do so many women stop taking care of themselves between the ages of 40-50? Working in a full-service salon, I hear women say almost daily, “Oh, I don’t care what I look like.”

They really should. When people take care of themselves, that’s a sign of a happy, healthy person.

Any stylist can advise women on current hairstyles and colors that work for them. We also encourage women to wash their skin with mild soap and to use moisturizer daily on their faces as well as body lotion on their legs and arms. Any woman can look attractive if she makes even a small effort and loves herself enough to try.

Many women do make an effort, and it pays off. A moderately attractive, neat and clean woman is more likely to be hired and receive a higher salary than one who doesn’t wear makeup or is a little careless with her appearance.

I’m not saying that it’s fair, but it’s simply our reality. Even if you don’t like makeup, always use a little lipstick or mascara when going out.

DEAR TIFFANY >>