This study investigates the relationship between food security, household income, and dietary quality in young adults aged 19–34, using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) from 2008–2018. Young adults were classified into four groups based on household income and food security status: food secure with high income, food insecure with high income, food secure with low income, and food insecure with low income.
Findings reveal that food insecurity and low income were associated with lower dietary quality, including insufficient intakes of essential nutrients such as calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C. Individuals in the food insecure and low-income group consumed more processed and energy-dense foods like instant noodles and Sprite, while those in the food secure and high-income group consumed more nutrient-rich foods like apples and beef. Food insecurity was linked to increased rates of mobility problems and anxiety/depression.
The study highlights the importance of addressing food insecurity to improve dietary quality and health-related quality of life among vulnerable populations.
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