The Relationship Between Food Security and Poor Health Among Female WIC Participants

Abstract

This study evaluated the prevalence and relationship of food security, dietary choices, and health status within the Butte County Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in California. One hundred fifty-five postpartum non-lactating female WIC participants were surveyed on their health and food security status through validated measures and their dietary choices through 7 Likert statements. Participants who were food insecure scored significantly lower on the general and mental health scales and their diet choice score. The participants' dietary choices also affected mental and general health scores. Food insecurity significantly increased the likelihood of having a lower mental health score and seldom or never eating 2½ cups of vegetables per day. These results suggest that food insecurity is associated with decreased general and mental health and vegetable consumption among Butte County WIC participants.