Why do we choose to eat the way we
do? Why do we go for seconds knowing that is not healthy?
There is a
physiological need to eat, and of course we eat when we are hungry but there are
other factors that may influence the choices we make, how much we eat, how
often, etc. Sometimes we don't even know why we are eating, we just eat! Understanding the driving force behind the
impulse to eat can help us be in control and choose our meals wisely.
Our culture influences may prompt us to eat certain
foods and/or the restriction of other food groups. I grew up in a very traditional
Hispanic family and we must have rice with every meal. I eat my beef stew over
white rice; if I make spaghetti I will have a side of white rice. To some this
is unacceptable but to me it’s perfectly fine. Breaking the cycle, and perhaps
replacing the side of white rice for a side of vegetables may take some effort,
but it is very much doable and a side or vegetables made this a balanced meal.
There are psychological factors that may
affect our healthy eating. Stress, happiness, sadness, and mood can affect our
appetite. Some people eat when depressed others eat when all is going well. We tend to look for emotional comfort in
food; leading to unwanted weight and health issues. Other times we eat because it is there; it is
accessible! Lack of knowledge, education, convenience, and money can also be barriers when trying to choose healthy foods. It is probably easier to go to a drive-thru
window than come home a prepare a meal; but if we plan ahead we can stay away
from drive-thru, unhealthy food and fuel our body with the right nutrients on a budget.
Food should only have one meaning in our lives, healthy food nourishes
our body. Food is not intended to provide us with a coping mechanism, or
emotional comfort, or happiness, healthy food provides our body with essential
nutrients.
There are ways in which we can retrain our mind to avoid overeating or making unhealthy choices. Make gradual/small changes and stick to them.
- Don't buy junk food, if is not there you can't eat it
- Pack a lunch and only eat what you packed
- Get moving, go for a walk
- Drink water; lots of water
Internet Resources
References:
Bellisle, France
(2005). The Determinants of Food Choice. Retrieved from http://www.eufic.org/article/en/expid/review-food-choice/
Sizer, F., & Whitney, E. (2013). Nutrition Concepts and
Controversies (13th ed.). Wadsworth
Cengage Learning
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