Published in the scientific journal Appetite, the study was led by Marcin Rzeszutek, PhD, from the University of Warsaw's newly established Trauma Research Laboratory. Rzeszutek and his team found that individuals who experienced ACEs during childhood exhibited higher body mass indexes (BMI) as adults, consumed fewer health-beneficial foods, and more frequently reached for unhealthy products such as fast food and sugary snacks.

‘In recent years, there has been growing interest in the psychological causes of obesity,’ Rzeszutek said. ‘Our results confirm that exposure to trauma in early life may be a significant risk factor for adverse eating behaviors and, consequently, health disorders in adulthood.’

The Hidden Link Between Trauma and Eating Habits

The study suggests that early trauma may impair the ability to regulate emotions, which can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as emotional overeating. According to Małgorzata Desmond, PhD, a co-author of the study and a dietitian at University College London, this research underscores the importance for healthcare professionals to recognize that childhood trauma may be an underlying cause of poor dietary patterns in patients.

‘We hope to raise awareness among patients, family doctors, and dietitians about the non-obvious factors that may contribute to unhealthy eating patterns and obesity,’ said Desmond.

What Are Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)?

ACEs are defined as potentially traumatic events that occur during childhood, ranging from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, to neglect, family dysfunction, or exposure to substance abuse. Studies show that nearly 25% of people worldwide have experienced at least one ACE, with around 15% having faced two or more.

In Poland, the rate of ACEs is notably higher than in many other countries. In a national study involving more than 3,500 Poles, 53% reported having experienced at least one ACE, while 36% had encountered two or more. The most common forms of trauma were family dysfunction (35%), psychological abuse (29%), and emotional neglect (28%).

The Link to Obesity and Poor Diet Quality

To better understand the relationship between ACEs and adult diet, the researchers worked with nutrition and dietetics experts, including Joanna Kowalkowska, PhD, from the University of Warmia and Mazury. They evaluated diet quality using two indices: the pro-Healthy Diet Index (pHDI), which rewards healthy food choices such as vegetables, fruits, and fish, and the non-Healthy Diet Index (nHDI), which tracks the consumption of unhealthy foods like fast food, fried dishes, and sweets.

The study found that individuals who experienced childhood trauma were more likely to have lower pHDI scores and higher nHDI scores. In addition, they had a higher risk of obesity, suggesting that ACEs may play a crucial role in the development of long-term health issues related to diet.

Why Does Childhood Trauma Affect Diet?

Rzeszutek explained that emotional dysregulation caused by ACEs could significantly impact eating behaviors in adulthood. Research by other scholars, including Małgorzata Dragan and Professor Katarzyna Schier, has shown that early abuse can weaken impulse control mechanisms and disrupt emotional regulation. This often leads to overeating as a way to cope with stress or negative emotions.

'Emotional dysregulation can manifest as emotional overeating and binge eating, which are directly linked to obesity,’ Rzeszutek said.

Furthermore, ACEs can have lasting effects on brain development, influencing neurological, hormonal, and immune systems. Chronic stress from early trauma can lead to changes that make it harder for individuals to manage their emotions and make healthier decisions.

The Broader Impact of ACEs

In addition to their link to obesity, ACEs have been shown to increase the risk of other mental health issues, such as depression, substance abuse, and suicidal tendencies. Previous studies have also highlighted their connection to severe physical conditions like cancer and heart disease, as well as premature death.

For instance, Rzeszutek’s earlier research found that 19% of Polish adults suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and 11% from complex PTSD, a condition resulting from prolonged exposure to trauma.

Desmond noted the wider implications of these findings. ‘It has long been known that alcohol, cigarettes, and stimulants are risk factors for many diseases,' she said. ‘It is remarkable, however, that childhood trauma can also have a lasting impact on physical health. Poor eating habits later in life are just one of the many potential consequences of early traumatic experiences.’

As the study reveals, addressing the effects of ACEs on adult health requires a multi-faceted approach. Healthcare professionals, including doctors, dietitians, and mental health experts, should be aware of the potential connections between early-life trauma and long-term health issues. By acknowledging the role of ACEs, interventions can be better tailored to support those struggling with emotional regulation, eating disorders, and obesity. (PAP)

PAP - Science in Poland, Ludwika Tomala

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