Calorie labels on restaurant menus are causing unintentional harm to individuals suffering from eating disorders, according to a systematic review led by researchers at King’s College London. Published recently in BMJ Public Health, the review shows how these calorie counts, intended to inform diners about their food choices and reduce obesity rates, may instead trigger disordered eating behaviors.
The study synthesized findings from 16 previous studies involving over 8,000 participants from the UK, US, Canada, and Saudi Arabia. It revealed troubling insights about how calorie labeling often exacerbates conditions for those with eating disorders, leading to behaviors such as avoiding restaurants and obsessively focusing on calorie counts when dining out.
Dr. Tom Jewell, the senior author and lecturer in mental health nursing at King’s College London, expressed his concern, saying, “Our study highlights the frustration of those with lived experience of eating disorders being left out of the conversation around calorie labels.” He emphasized the need for public health campaigns to balance their focus on obesity with the serious repercussions such policies can have on individuals who struggle with eating disorders.
Among the individuals interviewed as part of the review, one patient shared, “It’s definitely set my recovery back by a long way and I only feel safe eating at home now.” This sentiment was echoed by others who reported feelings of discomfort and heightened anxiety associated with calorie labels, reinforcing the beliefs tied to their disorders.
The findings indicate more comprehensive research and nuanced public health approaches are necessary. According to the report, calorie labels prompt problematic thoughts for those with eating disorders, leading to decisions like choosing lower-calorie options or avoiding certain foods altogether. Many participants reported feeling hyper-aware of calorie counts, which can trigger deeply rooted fears about weight gain and body image.
Despite the labels’ intended purpose of promoting healthier eating habits, this systematic review suggests they might actually worsen the eating patterns of those with issues like anorexia or bulimia. It appears the policy aimed at addressing obesity could inadvertently contribute to the persistence or escalation of disordered eating behaviors.
Tom Quinn, from the eating disorder charity Beat, remarked, “This research adds to a growing bank of evidence: calorie labeling on menus doesn’t help anyone.” He noted the potential harm caused to individuals with eating disorders, alongside the negligible benefits for the general population, raises questions about the effectiveness of such health policies.
One participant described their struggle, stating, “I become hyperaware of the idea of the calories. I feel dirty.” This testimony highlights the emotional toll these labels can take, transforming what should be a social and enjoyable experience—dining out—into one fraught with anxiety and self-consciousness.
The systematic review has drawn attention to the unintended consequences of calorie labeling within broader discussions of health and policy. Critics of the labeling argue it does not contribute significantly to reducing obesity and may exacerbate challenges faced by eating disorder sufferers. The authors of the review call for refinements to current restaurant policies, stressing the pressing need to evaluate both public health outcomes—like obesity reduction—and the mental health impacts on vulnerable populations.
Dr. Jewell underscored, “Striking a balance between the positive and harmful impacts of calorie labels on menus is vitally important for any public health policy.” Effective strategies to combat obesity must take care to prevent the marginalization and distress of those already grappling with eating disorders.
Overall, the mixed findings suggest the immediate need for additional studies focused on diverse populations affected by eating disorders and the broader impacts of nutrition policies. Without such investigation, the unintended harms of calorie labeling may continue unexamined, leaving those who need support most without the necessary protections.
Looking forward, it is clear there is substantial work to be done to rethink nutritional labeling practices. Policymakers are urged to work with mental health professionals and organizations advocating for individuals with eating disorders to design measures ensuring public health policies do not inadvertently worsen their situation. The hope is to create environments where everyone can coexist healthily, recognizing both the necessity of informed eating and the vulnerabilities present for those battling their relationship with food.
For individuals suffering from eating disorders, communicating with mental health professionals about coping mechanisms when faced with calories on menus is also recommended, as awareness and support can help navigate these challenging feelings.