Is there a Relationship between Food Insecurity and Overweight/Obesity?

The objective of this review was to determine if there was a relationship or association between food insecurity and obesity. Obesity has been identified as a global population health problem. In Canada between 1979-2004 the prevalence of obesity increased from 14% to 23% of the adult population. Overweight and obesity are linked with many chronic illnesses including cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes. Research has emerged suggesting a possible relationship between levels of food security and increased levels of overweight and obesity. This review examines the literature to attempt to determine the relationship between food insecurity and overweight/obesity.