Study Title
The Lived Experience of Food Insecurity Among Adults with Obesity: A Quantitative and Qualitative Systematic Review
Principal Investigator
Rebecca Briggs, Hope Rowden, Lukasz Lagojda, Timothy Robbins, Harpal S. Randeva
Affiliation
Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, UK; Warwickshire Institute for the Study of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, UK; Clinical Evidence-Based Information Service, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, UK
Start Date
Not specified
End Date
Not specified
Study Objective
To systematically assess the lived experiences of individuals with obesity who are also food insecure, and to identify the factors influencing their relationship with food.
Short Abstract
This systematic review synthesizes findings from 25 studies on food insecurity (FI) and obesity. Key themes identified include the high financial cost of food, psychological stress related to food insecurity, geographical access to food, and food practices at home. The review highlights the significant psychological aspects, such as depression and low self-esteem, contributing to the experience of food insecurity among those with obesity. It concludes that addressing the underlying food environment and systemic issues is crucial for alleviating the food insecurity-obesity paradox.
Study Design
Systematic review of qualitative and quantitative studies
Population
Adults with obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²)
Sample Size
25 studies included
Inclusion Criteria
Studies that reported on the lived experiences of adults with obesity experiencing food insecurity
Exclusion Criteria
Studies not reporting on both obesity and food insecurity, or those lacking data on lived experiences
Intervention/Exposure
Food insecurity, food assistance programs (e.g., food banks), and socio-economic factors
Outcome Measures
Food security status, food choices, obesity status, mental health (e.g., depression, self-esteem), and food-related stress
Funding Source
Not specified
Collaborating Institutions
University of Warwick, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust
Ethics Approval
Not applicable (systematic review)
Publication Status
Published in Journal of Public Health, February 2024
Keywords
Food insecurity, obesity, food banks, psychological stress, food environment, food choice, obesity and food insecurity paradox
Data Collection Methods
Systematic search of electronic databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, ASSIA, AMED, APA PsychINFO)
Primary Data Availability
Not applicable
Contact Information
Timothy Robbins (