What are the links between poverty, food insecurity, and obesity?
According to the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC), for many households, a lack of money can contribute to both hunger and obesity. There are a number of factors behind this apparent paradox, such as the economics of buying food. Households without money to buy adequate food may be forced to rely on cheaper, higher calorie foods in an attempt to stave off hunger by maximizing caloric intake for each dollar spent on food. This can lead to over consumption of calories and a less healthful diet. Another factor potentially contributing to obesity in low-income households is erratic eating patterns due to food shortages. Drastic restriction of calories when food is unavailable may be followed by excessive consumption of calories when food becomes available again. These eating patterns can contribute to obesity over time. Additional factors contributing to higher obesity rates among those living in poverty include stress, poor access to quality food, lack of nutrition education, and the
