A protocol for a mixed methods systematic review and meta-analysis of evidence relating to emotional eating and diet-related long-term conditions

Emotional Eating is a response to positive or negative feelings through the temporary comfort of overconsuming often energy-dense and palatable foods. EE has the potential to negatively impact adherence to dietary lifestyle interventions. This is important as diet-related long-term conditions, such as obesity and related comorbidities, often require interventions that focus on dietary modifications. Despite this, individuals are rarely assessed for EE.

This mixed methods systematic review aims to determine the prevalence of EE in adults with diet-related long-term conditions in middle to high income countries and the tools that are used to measure and/or to screen for EE. This review also aims to assess qualitative evidence on the experiences of adults with DRLTC and EE.

A search for peer reviewed and grey literature will be conducted. Quality appraisal of grey literature will be conducted using Authority, Accuracy, Coverage, Objectivity, Date and Significance checklist and peer reviewed literature will be assessed using CASP checklists.

If adequate data on prevalence is collected, a meta-analysis will be performed to calculate a combined point estimate, otherwise a narrative synthesis approach will be adopted. If sufficient qualitative data is collected, thematic evidence synthesis of findings will be performed.