Eating more and enjoying it less: U.S. prison diets for women.

A study of weight gain and dietary adequacy among female prisoners was conducted by studying inmate weight changes, nutritional values of prison diets and consumption patterns in a jail cafeteria. Inmates were found to incur significant weight gains (Mean = 14 lbs.); their diets were inadequate nutritively, and were consumed in such a way as to exacerbate the inadequacies. The authors conclude that some of these problems could be ameliorated by changing ingredients, preparation, and the role of food in the prisoner's life, although for certain categories of prisoners with specific health conditions (e.g., pregnancy), adequate diets will require major adjustments in jail and prison food management.