What can food insecurity lead to concerning health?

Food insecurity refers to the lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life. This condition can significantly impact health, particularly leading to an increased risk of malnutrition. When individuals or families face food insecurity, they may struggle to obtain a sufficient quantity and variety of foods that meet their nutritional needs. As a result, they might consume fewer vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients, leading to deficiencies that can affect overall health.

Furthermore, malnutrition can manifest in various forms, such as undernutrition (not having enough calories or nutrients) and overnutrition (consuming too many calories, often from unhealthy food sources). The stress and anxiety associated with food insecurity can also compound these health issues, contributing further to both physical and mental health problems.

The other options present scenarios that do not typically align with food insecurity. Improved mental health and better access to nutritional foods are generally not associated with food insecurity, as lack of access often leads to increased stress and poorer dietary choices. Similarly, food insecurity typically correlates with a higher risk of chronic diseases, as the inability to access nutritious food can lead to problems like obesity or diabetes rather than a lower risk.