Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Ayden Hayes

Date

2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Health Studies

Committee Chair

Tracy Bruen

Committee Member

Angela Wallick

Committee Member

Irma Singarella

Abstract

In the last five years, research regarding the link between food insecurity and eating disorders has been on the rise. This review was conducted to explore this link and identify potential gaps and limitations that exist among the current research and how future research can address these. Evidence gathered throughout this review supports a need for changes to screening tools for eating disorders as well as food assistance programs, which indicates some ways that this research can direct future practice for nutrition professionals. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics defines disordered eating as irregular eating patterns that are not indicative of an eating disorder diagnosis, while eating disorders are defined using specific criteria set by the American Psychiatric Association. The Academy emphasizes that disordered eating is not a diagnosis and those with disordered eating patterns may not fit the criteria for an eating disorder. Disordered eating behaviors include chronic dieting, weight fluctuations, food rituals, and compulsive exercise among others according to the Academy. The USDA defines food insecurity as “a lack of consistent access to enough food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life.”1 This review found that individuals struggling with food insecurity are at increased risk of developing an eating disorder or disordered eating behaviors.

Comments

Data is provided by the student

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest.

Notes

Open Access

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