Stress is associated with poor dietary quality in low‐income women

Abstract

Low‐income women are faced with high risk of stress, poor dietary behaviors, and obesity. The impact of these factors on dietary quality in this population is not well characterized. We conducted a cross‐sectional study among 101 non‐pregnant women with a child enrolled in the Cumberland County (NC) WIC Program. We measured dietary intake by 24‐hr recall; calculated Healthy Eating Index‐2005 (HEI‐2005) scores; administered the perceived stress (PS) scale, and 3‐factor eating behavior questionnaire to assess emotional eating (EE), uncontrolled eating (UE), and cognitive restraint. Sixty‐one percent of the women were obese. The median HEI‐2005 score was 47.8 (interquartile range 40.6 – 60.0). HEI‐2005 did not differ by BMI status. PS was negatively associated with HEI‐2005 (r=−0.26, p=0.01), but EE and UE were not related to HEI‐2005. PS, EE, and UE were negatively associated with the HEI component score of solid fats and added sugars (p<0.01). PS was positively associated with EE (r=0.29, p<0.0001) and UE (r=0.38, p<0.0001). EE was associated with higher BMI (r=0.23, p=0.02). In summary, higher levels of stress were associated with poorer dietary quality and eating behaviors associated with high BMI. Behavioral interventions to reduce stress and modify eating behaviors are warranted in this population.Funding: RTI International Internal Research and Development Award