Describe the factors (e.g., social, psychological, philosophical, and physical) that drive our food choices.

Why we eat what we eat:

Social Factors effecting what we eat and how we choose foods:

There are many things that contribute to the kinds of foods that we choose. One thing that effects us is how we were raised. I was brought up with my mom cooking fried chicken, baked potatoes, and corn on the cob covered in butter. This meal does not have any of the vitamins and nutrients that my body needs, but I always thought it was a 'real' meal that was normal and provided my boy with what it needed. Many children are brought up this way and don't realize until they are older that these things are bad. Our families and culture shape what we eat. I think of my boyfriend's family because they are Mexican. In my opinion, they make the most delicious meals consisting of carne Asade (or steak), beans, rice, grilled onions, fried plantains and other foods that are associated with the Mexican and Spanish Culture. While these things may taste good, they are really bad for our health. The families that have traditions through these foods share a bond and special memories with their meals. This is one thing that really shapes what people choose to eat.

Advertising can impact what we choose to eat!

Another thing that effects what we eat is advertising. Many commercials on the TV, radio or internet will make a ertain kind of food souns good. They may even spin the commercial to make it seem like the food is nutritious or low in calories, when it's really not. They will put "only 100 calories!' on the front of a package, but you have to pay attention. One package of something could contain 2-3 servings, meaning that the item is really 600 calories. People just have to be mindful of the nutrition labels, and not let advertisements mislead them. Another thing that effects what we eat is the price.

psychological Factors effecting what we eat and how we choose foods:

I think that one psychological factor would be sadness or depression. We sit it in the movies, and Television shows; when someone gets dumped or is going through heartbreak, they turn to ice cream. People who are depressed tend to turn towards food to make them feel better. This is a temporary fix, and will harm us in the long run. People also get so depressed or sad that they lose their appetite, and end up missing meals. This can make us sick, and in turn make us feel even worse then we did initially.  


 

Portion sizes are huge today!
This increase in portion sizes has increased because businesses are giving more food so that people are getting more for their money, but this is actually hurting us. Society also has changed to be very ‘quantity based.’ We want more of everything, and the more we are getting, the more we are willing to pay. Plus, people always want more for less, and this holds true with food. ABC News quotes Janet Schwartz, who says that "“Suggesting a smaller portion allows people to satisfy a desire for a food and does not force them to sacrifice what they want to eat,” and that "“downsizing” may also help people with portion control.  “Culturally, Americans do not respond to the cue of ‘feeling full.’ The cue to stop eating is only when the plate is empty.” (Downsize that meal, 2011). Many people do have that mentality; they stop eating when the food is gone, not when they feel full.
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A low cost tool/technique would be to share a meal. Many places, like Applebees and Chili’s have 2 for $20. Instead of taking advantage of this (which includes an appetizer, TWO meals AND dessert), just order one appetizer or salad or split, and then do the same with a meal. That is more than enough for two people.

References:
http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/health/2012/02/08/downsize-that-meal-customers-say-ok/ retrieved Sept 16, 2012