Engaging in healthy eating behaviors when access to affordable nutritious foods is limited

ABSTRACT

Using a qualitative methodology, 14 women experiencing food insecurity were interviewed to explore their experiences with engaging in healthy eating to manage their weight. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and evaluated using content analysis methods. Resilience factors situated throughout the social environment altered the path from exposure to risk (food insecurity) to poor outcomes (unhealthy eating behaviors/obesity). Resilience factors included social safety net programs, transportation, stretching the food budget, nutritional knowledge, and motivation. Study results can be used to develop strength-based policies and interventions to address obesity among women with low incomes.

KEYWORDS:

• Obesity
• resilience
• food insecurity
• eating behaviors
• low-income women

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).