Around 12% of the US population experiences some degree of food insecurity. Rates are higher among non-white households, reaching around 20%.

University of Delaware

Limited or uncertain availability of nutritionally adequate and safe foods, or limited or uncertain ability to acquire acceptable foods in socially acceptable foods in socially acceptable ways.

Food Insecurity

Bergmans, R. S., Sadler, R. C., Wolfson, J. A., Jones, A. D., &amp; Kruger, D. (2019). Moderation of the association between individual food security and poor mental health by the local food environment among adult residents of Flint, Michigan. Health Equity, 3(1), 264–274. https://doi.org/10.1089/heq.2018.0103 

Moderation of the Association Between Individual Food Security and Poor Mental Health by the Local Food Environment Among Adult Residents of Flint, Michigan

Food Insecurity In United States

There are four main dimensions to what food insecurity looks like for an individual.

- Inadequate energy intake
- Inadequate nutrient intake
- Feelings of impoverishment or restricted choices
- Abnormal meal patters (skipping or size of meal)

Dimensions of Food Insecurity

Researchers believe that there is a relationship between an individuals' food insecurity and mental health. Acute psychological pain, anxiety, shame and depression are just a few examples of mental heath outcomes that could stem from having an unstable food source. Researchers have found that food insecurity is a predictor of poor mental health. They have also found that those who had more access to fruits and vegetables are less likely to experience poor mental health.

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