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Exploring Drivers of Binge Eating in Individuals With Food Insecurity and Recurrent Binge Eating: A Qualitative
Emilie A Green1, Kristin L Schneider1, Angela Chang2
1College of Health Professions, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Food insecurity uniquely drives binge eating through fluctuating food access and mental/physical health impacts. Addressing these factors is key for treatment in this population.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Nutrition Science
Background:
- Food insecurity is a growing public health concern.
- Recurrent binge eating is a complex eating disorder.
- The interplay between food insecurity and binge eating requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the specific drivers of binge eating among individuals experiencing both food insecurity and recurrent binge eating.
- To understand the lived experiences of this vulnerable population.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving 28 adults (ages 26-69) with current food insecurity and recurrent binge eating.
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore the relationship between food access and binge eating.
- Thematic analysis was used to analyze interview data.
Main Results:
- Participants identified binge-eating drivers unique to food insecurity, such as fluctuating food access.
- Common binge-eating drivers like stress, sleep deprivation, and binge-promoting narratives were also reported.
- An interaction was observed where financial uncertainty led to stress, subsequently triggering binge eating.
Conclusions:
- Food insecurity-specific factors, alongside mental and physical health considerations and binge-promoting narratives, are crucial for addressing binge eating in this population.
- Future research should investigate interventions focused on improving nutritious food access and enhancing coping strategies.
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