These are the different aspects that forces us to choose our foods.
What people eat is formed and constrained by circumstances that are essentially social and cultural. Population studies show apparent differences in social classes concerning food and nutrient intakes. Poor diets can result in under- (micronutrient deficiency) and over-nutrition (energy overconsumption resulting in overweight and obesity), problems that face different sectors of society, requiring different levels of expertise and intervention methods.
Cultural influences lead to the difference in the habitual consumption of certain foods and traditions of preparation. Some instances can lead to restrictions, such as excluding meat and milk from the diet. Cultural influences are, however, amenable to change: when moving to a new country, individuals often adopt particular food habits of the local culture.
Social influences on food intake refer to the impact that one or more persons have on the eating behaviour of others, either direct (buying food) or indirect (learning from peer's behaviour), either conscious (transfer of beliefs) or subconscious. Even when eating alone, food choice is influenced by social factors because attitudes and habits develop through interaction with others. However, quantifying the social influences on food intake is difficult because the influences that people have on the eating behaviour of others are not limited to one type, and people are not necessarily aware of the social forces exerted on their eating behaviour.
Social support can have a beneficial effect on food choices and healthy dietary change. For example, social support is a strong predictor for fruit and vegetable consumption among adults. Social support may enhance health promotion by fostering a sense of group belonging and helping people to be more competent and self-efficacious.
The family is widely recognised as being significant in food decisions. Research shows the shaping of food choices taking place in the home. Because family and friends can be a source of encouragement in making and sustaining dietary change, adopting dietary strategies which are acceptable to them may benefit the individual whilst also affecting the eating habits of others.
Food choices are shaped by social and cultural factors such as social class, cultural influences, and social context. People from different social classes tend to have other eating habits and nutritional intakes, which can lead to problems like undernutrition or overnutrition. Culture can affect what people eat and how they prepare their food, leading to different dietary restrictions or habits. Social influences also play a role, with friends and family impacting food choices. Social support can help people make healthy food choices, and families are a significant factor in shaping food decisions. Adopting dietary strategies that work for everyone can benefit the individual and others.
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