http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/cheap-healthy-15-...
http://www.workingmother.com/food-nutrition/cheap-and-health...
http://www.fitbie.com/slideshow/20-ridiculously-cheap-and-he...
Low-income, probably low-education & stressful-job(s), not enough motivation/energy after coming home from work to cook a proper meal or get exercise. Personally, I think they can't afford it in ways that go beyond just money...
_____ways that go beyond money____
stressful-job(s) = not enough motivation/energy to cook. Multiple jobs probably means get home, just in time to take a 3 hour nap, take shower and head out to the next job. Forget about any meaningful attendance at the local gym. Assuming it's even safe enough to be at said gym during after-work hours in a low-income area.
low education = Not knowing just how damaging junk food really is.
http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/everyday_economics/2007/0...