Improving how we assess food intake in people facing weight stigma
A weight stigma-informed model to improve energy intake assessment
This study is looking at how feeling judged about weight affects how accurately people with overweight and obesity report what they eat, so we can create better ways to help them track their food intake.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10708973 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance dietary assessment methods for individuals with overweight and obesity by considering the impact of weight stigma on their reporting of food intake. Many adults in this group experience stigma, which can lead to underreporting of their energy intake as a coping mechanism. The study will involve participants completing a crossover investigation to explore the relationship between weight stigma and the accuracy of their dietary reports. By understanding these dynamics, the research seeks to develop more effective assessment tools that reflect true energy intake.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 18 and older with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 kg/m² or higher who have experienced weight stigma.
Not a fit: Patients who are underweight or have a BMI below 25 kg/m² may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate dietary assessments, ultimately improving nutrition and health outcomes for individuals with overweight and obesity.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific relationship between weight stigma and energy intake underreporting is not well-studied, similar approaches in addressing stigma in health assessments have shown promise.
Where this research is happening
Blacksburg, United States
- Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ — Blacksburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hedrick, Valisa — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Hedrick, Valisa
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.