Nutrition in marginalised groups

This chapter examines key nutritional issues and contemporary advances in human nutrition in marginalised groups. Evidence suggests that the dietary choices of communities on low income, including the homeless and families residing in temporary accommodation, are compromised. Homelessness in particular is associated with increased physical and mental health needs. The chapter reviews the evidence for the nutritional requirements, dietary intake and associated health and lifestyle factors in homeless individuals. It considers the unique challenges faced by single homeless adults and homeless families (residing in temporary or bed-and-breakfast accommodation), along with possible interventions to overcome these. It also discusses the potential benefit and community responses to dietary intervention, food banks and voucher systems within the context of complex nutritional needs, food insecurity and marginalised housing scenarios. UK policies and guidelines, including the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) and specialist groups, are analysed as well.