What lifestyle, socio-cultural, and genetic factors influence food preferences, dietary practices, and whether or not someone becomes obese?

Answer 1

The obesity epidemic in the U.S. is multi-factorial. One major contributing factor is an increase in energy intake over the last few decades (200-300 kcal/day). Societal influences on eating include number of meals, eating outside the home, increased portion sizes, increased consumption of energy-dense foods, and changes in snack habits. Socio-cultural and psychological factors such as differences in income, education, dietary beliefs, and acceptability of being overweight can increase risk of obesity. Psychological influences such as family and the social environment can provide permissive cues for others to gain weight. People who are depressed, anxious, or impulsive, have low self-esteem, or have suffered emotional trauma may turn to food for emotional comfort, making them more likely to suffer from obesity. Genetics can predispose individuals to becoming obese (or not) in response to these socio-cultural and lifestyle factors.