Abstract
BACKGROUND: The relationship between food consumption and eating disorders (ED) is pivotal, given that eating disorders are characterized by abnormal eating habits which can result in significant health issues. However, research on this topic in non-western, economically underdeveloped countries is limited, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean. OBJECTIVE: To gather and examine the available evidence on food consumption and eating patterns in people diagnosed with eating disorders (ED), in studies conducted in Latin American and Caribbean countries, with particular interest in identifying food consumption assessment tools used in this population. METHODS: The scoping review was carried out in three bibliographic databases: Medline (PubMed), Cochrane Library, and LILACS, with no restrictions, up to November 2025. PRISMA guidelines were used for reporting this review. RESULTS: Four studies were identified that met the eligibility criteria, all conducted in Brazil. The studies included adults diagnosed with binge eating disorder (BED) or bulimia nervosa (BN). No participants with Anorexia Nervosa (AN) were included in these studies. High energy variability was observed in the diets; when considering only binge eating episodes, the highest intake was found in participants diagnosed with BED. Among the most common macronutrients consumed are carbohydrates, lipids, and finally, proteins; there is no greater variation when considering only binge eating episodes. Micronutrient intake is below the RDI levels, with deficiencies of vitamin E, folic acid, magnesium, and iron. Among the most frequently consumed foods are highly palatable foods, as well as beef, rice, and beans. The most common methods for assessing food consumption were food diary, food frecuency, and 24-hour recall, among others. CONCLUSION: Common foods in Brasil, such as rice and beans were frequently consumed in the studies selected. Consumption in patients with BN varies, ranging from 19,257 to 158 kcal/day. More studies are needed to validate and culturally adapt food consumption and eating patterns assessment tools in this population.