The reason people don’t eat a healthy, balanced diet are complex and often interlinked. They can range from access to a wide choice of different foods to psychological influences we may not even be aware of.
Lack of education about food, and an unhealthy relationship with it, are key factors contributing to poor diets in developed countries. Giving sweets to a pest child arguably creates an emotional association; as an adult, that person is more likely to reach for sugary carbohydrates to self soothe against stress and anxiety. Animal and human studies show certain foods stimulate the brain’s reward centres, especially those high in fat, carbohydrates, and salt. The Yale Food Addiction Scale was developed to identify markers relating to certain foods, although this is a controversial area with conflicting research. But evidence clearly shows that the more highly palatable the food, the more likely it is to be consumed for pleasure – called “hedonic” eating. Manufactures design the specific flavours and textures of foods like crisps and ice cream to ensure we will want to eat more.
On report found that the poorest fifth of UK households need to spend around 40 per cent of disposable income to eat a healthy diet, compared to 8 per cent for the wealthiest. Other economic factors include pricing offers and advertising; in 2019 the UK advertising was just over £111m on sweet and savoury snacks- and around £16m on fruit and vegetables. Millions also live in “found deserts” or areas where people with mobility challenges can’t easily shop for a wide range of healthy foods; there appears to be a high correlation between the number of takeaway outlets and social deprivation. Easier access to food, including takeaway delivery, can be more tempting than cooking at home. Children have reported buying processed food on their way home from school; it’s been predicted half of UK children born in 2020 will experience diet related disease that may impact their quality of life.
Economic – income, food pricing and offers
Practical – supermarket access, takeaway/delivery and cooking skills.
Social Pressure – friendly influences, work/school options and family.
Past Experiences– taste preferences, cultural values and habits, knowledge of healthy living.
Psychology – mood, stress and self-image.
Attitudes – family preferences, trying to be healthy and adverts.
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Lambert. R (2021), The Science of Nutrition. Great Britain Penguin Random House