Understanding Hunger: Biological and Cultural Influences

These flashcards cover key concepts associated with the biological and cultural factors influencing hunger and eating behavior.

Hunger

A natural biological drive that prompts individuals to eat in order to survive.

Ghrelin

A hormone released from the stomach that promotes stomach contractions and signals hunger.

Leptin

A hormone produced by fat cells that helps to regulate energy balance by inhibiting hunger.

CCK (Cholecystokinin)

A hormone released by the upper intestine that signals satiety to the brain.

The Essex incident

A historical event involving extreme survival measures, including cannibalism, that illustrates the lengths people will go to avoid starvation.

The Donner Party

A group of American pioneers who became trapped in the Sierra Nevada during winter, resulting in cannibalism for survival.

French Paradox

The phenomenon where the French have a diet high in fat but lower rates of heart disease and obesity compared to Americans.

Bulimia

An eating disorder characterized by binge eating followed by purging to prevent weight gain.

Cultural Influences on Eating

The role of culture in shaping an individual's food preferences and eating habits.

BMI (Body Mass Index)

A measure of body fat based on height and weight.

Situational Variables

Factors external to the individual that influence eating behavior, such as social contexts, food availability, and cultural norms.

Motivational Processes

Internal drives and factors that stimulate an individual to pursue particular behaviors, including eating.

Comfort Foods

Foods that provide a nostalgic or sentimental value, often consumed in response to emotional needs.

Portion Size

The quantity of food served at one time that affects how much an individual consumes.

Behavioral Genetics

The study of the role of genetic and environmental influences on behaviors, including eating habits.

Food Availability

The accessibility of food items that can influence consumption patterns and choices.