Stress and Disordered Eating Patterns
Authors: Tsofliou, F., Casey, C. and Hughes, C.
Volume: 1
Pages: 51-73
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-16691-4_3
Abstract:This chapter provides a review of the relationship between stress and eating behavior, with emphasis on aspects of altered eating patterns in the presence of stress, and the physiological and psychological underpinning of this. This chapter does not focus on clinically diagnosed eating disorders; however, the eating behaviors discussed could be a precursor to their development. It encompasses the different forms of stress and explores the biological consequences such as endocrine and metabolic changes and increased inflammation and oxidative stress. The social determinants of eating patterns are also discussed, such as socioeconomic status, culture, and environment. In contrast, the bidirectional effect of nutrition and stress is debated, providing recommendations for the intake of specific nutrients or adherence to dietary patterns that may reduce the physiological and psychological consequences of stress. Individual differences and the two-way relationship of stress on food intake are also explored, outlining how some individuals increase their energy intake, while others reduce their consumption. Finally, the chapter recommends how an individual can be encouraged to cope with stress in more adaptive ways.
Source: Scopus