3.1.1 - Chocoholics? Dietary Change and Public Health

Western diet

Western diet

A dietary pattern characterized by the consumption of refined cereals, processed meat, edible oil, and sugar, which is associated with greater health risks.

Mediterranean diet

A dietary pattern traditionally followed in Mediterranean countries, emphasizing the consumption of fish and olive oils, which is considered more healthy.

Global dietary change

A phenomenon observed worldwide, where there has been a shift towards a more western diet in what people consume, and a shift away from the Mediterranean diet.

Health Canada Healthy Plate (Public Health Campaigns)

A public health campaign led by the Canadian government to promote healthier eating habits through information campaigns and required packaging labels.

Alcohol guidelines

Guidelines set by Health Canada to inform the public about safe alcohol consumption levels.

Obvious labeling

The requirement for packaging labels on food products to provide clear information about their nutritional content and potential health risks.

• required packaging labels

• Ex cigarettes have to say how bad they are for you

Unhealthy tax

A proposed tax on unhealthy food products to discourage their consumption, although it may lead to taxation of the poor and face opposition from those with economic or ideological concerns.

• Public health officials believe it is a good idea

• May lead to taxation of the poor as poor people spend more on sugary snacks

Opposition to nanny state

Philosophical opposition to government intervention in personal choices, including food consumption, arguing that individuals should have the freedom to make their own choices.

• many of those who argue against a nanny state are paid by sugary snack companies

Research funding

The practice of funding research disputing the scientific connection between specific foods and poor health, often by the same entities that profit from the sale of those products.

Price influence

The impact of pricing on food choices, as people's dietary patterns can be influenced by the affordability and availability of certain foods based on their geographical location.

Governments actions to make public Healthier

1. Health Canada Healthy Plate (Public Health Campaigns)

2. More obvious Labelling on foods

3. Create a tax on things that are unhealthy