Dietary and Consumer Behaviors in Individuals Currently Using Substances: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on NHANES (2013 - 2018).

Background: Substance use disorders (SUD) are associated with metabolic dysregulation and nutritional deficiencies. Studies show that incorporating nutrition interventions into treatment may improve physical and psychological health. This study sought to explore dietary and consumer behavior in individuals currently using substances.

Methods: Data from the 2013 - 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used for this cross-sectional study. Individuals 18 - 69 who were currently using marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, or injected unprescribed drugs were compared with individuals not using substances. Dietary and consumer behavior, including alcohol consumption was assessed. Analyses were performed using Stata I/C version 15.

Results: An unweighted sample of 12 943 adults was analyzed. A weighted proportion of 14.2% reported using substances in the prior 30 days. Individuals currently using substances reported more commercially prepared meals compared to individuals not using substances (P-value ≤.001), increased food insecurity (P ≤ .001), and increased alcohol intake (P ≤ .001). Multivariable logistic regression showed that both food insecurity and alcohol intake were independently and significantly linked to substance use.

Conclusion: Nutrition interventions for those using substances or in early recovery should incorporate education on practical food preparation within the social constraints of the individual, including higher rates of food insecurity.