How Food Insecurity and Poverty Affect Eating Disorders

When most people think of eating disorders, they imagine issues rooted in control, perfectionism, or diet culture—but for many, the story begins with something more fundamental: access to food.

Food Insecurity and Eating Disorders: A Hidden Connection

Research has increasingly shown a strong correlation between food insecurity—defined as limited or uncertain access to adequate food—and disordered eating behaviors. Individuals facing poverty or food insecurity may experience binge eating when food becomes available, skip meals out of necessity, or adopt restrictive eating patterns that mirror those found in clinical eating disorders.

According to a study published in Eating Behaviors, individuals who are food insecure are significantly more likely to engage in binge eating, emotional eating, and other harmful behaviors related to food. These behaviors are often misunderstood as poor habits or lack of discipline, rather than seen for what they are: survival responses.

The Local Reality: Food Insecurity in Eagle County

Despite Vail’s reputation as a resort destination, the reality for many families in Eagle County is far from picture-perfect. According to the Vail Valley Foundation and Mountain Youth, approximately 22% of Eagle County residents experience food insecurity, and 1 in 3 families struggle to afford basic needs, including groceries.

Further, Colorado Health Institute data reveals that Latino and immigrant populations in the region are disproportionately impacted, facing not only food insecurity but also limited access to culturally competent mental health care.

When food access is inconsistent, the physical and emotional toll can increase the risk of developing an eating disorder or worsen an existing one—particularly among teens, who are already navigating a complex social and developmental landscape.

How BodyKind Vail Is Responding

At BodyKind Vail, we recognize that addressing eating disorders requires a broader lens—one that includes equity, accessibility, and basic needs. We are actively working to support individuals at the intersection of poverty, food insecurity, and mental health.

We believe that true recovery and prevention begin with dignity, access, and compassion—and that no one should have to choose between mental wellness and meeting their most basic needs.

Sources:

• Becker, C. B., Middlemass, K., Taylor, B., & Johnson, C. (2017). Food insecurity and eating disorder pathology. Eating Behaviors.

• Colorado Health Institute. (2022). Health Equity in the Mountains Report.

• Mountain Youth. (2023). Eagle County Community Health Needs Assessment.

• Feeding America. (2022). Food Insecurity in Colorado.

• Vail Valley Foundation. (2023). State of the Valley Report.