Category: Health psychology

According to the World Health Organization, limiting sugar intake is crucial for health, highlighting the need for conscious consumption. While candy is often seen as a purely unhealthy treat, its role can be more nuanced, potentially offering certain psychological and situational benefits when consumed mindfully and in moderation.

According to a 2020 survey from the British Nutrition Foundation, 63% of people reported eating less healthily due to boredom during lockdowns, illustrating that understanding what is the cause of snacking involves more than simple physical hunger. The reasons for reaching for a snack are complex, stemming from a mix of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.

According to nutrition experts, a significant number of our perceived hunger signals are actually false or 'pseudo hunger,' triggered by emotions, environment, and habit rather than a true need for sustenance. This article delves into what is a pseudo hunger, and equips readers with the knowledge to recognize and manage these non-physical cravings for a healthier relationship with food.

Research indicates that highly restrictive eating patterns have a high failure rate, often due to feelings of deprivation and burnout. A rigid diet that doesn't bend will likely break, which is why the question 'Is breaking your diet sometimes okay?' is increasingly relevant for sustainable health and weight management.

According to one review, up to 95% of individuals who lose weight on a diet regain it, and two-thirds regain more than they lost. This stark statistic raises a critical question: why do restrictive diets not work, despite their immense popularity?

Research indicates that some individuals, particularly those who are less active, may experience a psychological phenomenon known as "post-exercise licensing," which can make them more likely to crave junk food after exercise. This common and frustrating experience has deeper roots than simple hunger pangs, involving a complex interplay of biology, mindset, and recovery needs.

Research indicates that up to 90% of individuals experience food cravings, with many developing desires for nutritious options. This suggests that the body effectively communicates needs through complex biological and psychological processes.

Food choices are surprisingly complex, with research showing that taste, brand, and nutritional value are among the most influential factors for adults, but a myriad of other internal and external forces are constantly at play. These factors can range from the unconscious workings of our biology to the powerful impact of our social and economic environments, all converging to determine what we decide to put on our plate each day.

According to one study, leading reasons for unhealthy eating among students included taste (78.9%), online food delivery (75.7%), and advertisements (74.3%). The seemingly simple question of why do people not eat healthy food uncovers a complex web of personal, social, and economic factors that influence our daily dietary choices.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity are leading global risks to health. Therefore, it is important for us to know those types of eating habits, not only to make healthier choices but also to understand the complex relationship between food and our overall physical and psychological health.