SOCIAL SCIENCES

The effect of psychological and social factors on health

The effect of psychological and social factors on health

Introduction

The environment in which individual lives and work have a direct influence on diet and health of an individual. The increasing health issues have directed the individuals to focus on their health aspects. According to the department of health, since 1950s obesity has been one of the growing issues in health of individuals. The percentage of individuals being obese is increasing. The government at the community level is helping them in managing their weight and healthy eating habits. The ravages of epidemic diseases have drawn the attention of regulatory and various health agencies in the present. Different individuals consume food differently and, their health structure also varies.

Changing diet and eating habits for a better life requires a considerable amount of time and effort. For many of us, it is not easy to change the habits which are shaped from our childhood. The social effects on health such as income and gender also play a vital role in the developed of a balanced diet. However, there are many studies being conducted which show psychological factors such as past experiences, beliefs and attitude shape the health (Ronaldo, 2011).

The paper compares the health in regard of food in 1950s and 2013. The changes and shifts in the habits and availability of food are studied. Then the importance of diet has been discussed, and the affect of diet on health is examined. Further, the paper examines two social factors and two psychological factors. The social factors which are illustrated in this paper are employment and gender. The psychological factors which are elaborated in this paper are prejudice and attitude.

Analysis

According to World Health Organization, health is not merely the absence of any disease or illness, but a complete state of sound mind, body and social well being. It is very crucial to develop good and healthy habits for a healthy well being. A good diet improves and maintains health over a long period of time. It is important to avoid food which can cause a negative impact on diet. An unhealthy approach towards the intake of diet can cause problems in the later part of life.

There has been a radical shift in the diet plans of individuals from the conventional to the contemporary era. Previously, the individuals and families focused on eating at home. Whereas, nowadays they consider it cost effective and preference unhealthy food. The children in the present days have developed unhealthy diet habits, and now it is creating problems for them. In UK, the health and food habits of individuals have also taken a rapid shift (Rile & Buttriss, 2011, p.426).

Comparing Food related health influence in 1950's and 2013

After the World War II in 1950s the food was not properly available to the public. The government and other international agencies were providing rationing for UK. The health issues were not the main focus at the time as individuals and families were reviving back from the war ...