The Relationship Between Food Insecurity, Dietary Patterns, and Obesity

Food insecurity is a major public health concern and refers to the limited or uncertain ability to acquire nutritious food in a safe and socially acceptable manner. Food insecurity has been associated with obesity and unhealthy dietary patterns, both of which can have negative health consequences. A review of the current literature revealed that an adverse association between food insecurity and dietary patterns is well supported. The association between food insecurity and obesity is strongest for women, with results for men and children being mixed. Evidence for long-term effects is limited due to a lack of longitudinal studies. Results from interventional studies have mostly been mixed, and it is presently unclear how to best help food-insecure individuals improve diet and weight. © 2016, Springer Science+Business Media New York.