Examining The Relationship Between Food Insecurity, Nutrition, And Chronic Disease Risk Factors: Implications For Public Health Interventions

Abstract

Food insecurity is a pressing public health issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide and is associated with poor nutrition and increased risk of chronic diseases. This review examines the relationship between food insecurity, nutrition, and chronic disease risk factors to inform public health interventions aimed at addressing this complex issue. We conducted a comprehensive literature review to synthesize current evidence on the pathways through which food insecurity influences dietary intake, nutritional status, and chronic disease risk factors.

Our findings highlight that food insecurity is associated with inadequate access to nutritious foods, leading to deficiencies in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Individuals experiencing foodinsecurity are more likely to consume energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods, which can contribute to  obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic conditions. Moreover, food insecurity is linked to disparities in diet quality, food access, and health outcomes across diverse populations, including children, elderly adults, racial and ethnic minorities, and low-income individuals. Public health interventions to address food insecurity should prioritize strategies that improve access to healthy, affordable foods, promote nutrition education and cooking skills, and address social determinants of health that contribute to food insecurity. By addressing the underlying drivers of food insecurity and promoting healthy eating behaviors, policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations can mitigate the impact of food insecurity on chronic disease risk factors and improve population health outcomes.