Food insecurity is defined as the disruption of food intake or eating patterns because of lack of money and other resources.1 In 2014, 17.4 million U.S. households were food insecure at some time during the year.2 Food insecurity does not necessarily cause hunger, but hungrier is a possible outcome of food insecurity.3 Leading cause Part of what makes food insecurity so difficult to solve is that the underlying causes — poverty, unemployment/under-employment, and inconsistent access to enough healthy food — are often deeply interconnected. Types 3.1 What are levels and types of food (in)security? Chronic food insecurity. A long-term and persistent condition of food insecurity. Transitory food insecurity. A short-term and temporary condition of food insecurity. Seasonal food insecurity. Side effects This research has found that food insecurity is associated with increased risks of some birth defects, 5 anemia, 6,7 lower nutrient intakes, 8 cognitive problems, 9 and aggression and anxiety. Identify How do you identify people who suffer from food insecurity? 1. Look at their physical appearance. Keep in mind that low body weight is not necessarily a tell-tale sign, as food insecurity is often linked to obesity. 2. Observe their behaviors and listen to conversations. 3. Ask questions.
