Mindless Eating Essay

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Anna Sharry Research Paper Expos 201- 013 Mindless Eating: The Unconscious Epidemic Prof. Wesemann 4/23/2014 “We all think we’re too smart to be tricked by packages, lighting, or plates. We might acknowledge that others could be tricked, but not us. That’s what makes mindless eating so dangerous” (Wansink 2). Unhealthy eating and the rise of obesity have become increasingly prevalent problems in the United States over the last few decades, but what often goes unnoticed is an epidemic that very well may be the cause of these issues; mindless eating. According to Weight Watchers, the term ‘mindless eating’ is defined as “eating food without paying adequate attention to what and how much is being eaten,” continuing to mention that this habit can be influenced by our surroundings and portion sizes. With the advancement of technology increasing the number of distractions, the idea that “bigger is better,” and American culture thriving in a life of convenience, snacking has become much more than a quick granola bar. Rather, it has transformed into consuming an entire bag of chips, for example, without even realizing it. Clearly, mindless eating is a significant contributor to health problems such as obesity, but what does this practice truly say about the culture in which we live? This unconscious habit may be impacting society to larger extent than many realize; hurting productivity, driving up health care costs, prolonging and even encouraging a fast paced lifestyle full of haphazard decision making. Up until the early 1900’s, being of a thicker stature was desirable as it was a sign of wealth, value, and beauty. Women were encouraged to be full-figured in order to deal with pregnancies and the rearing of their children ... ... middle of paper ... ... the former. Health problems in America are approaching a point where it is no longer important who is technically to blame; rather our efforts should be focused on moving away from such unhealthy eating habits to begin with. The prevalence of overweight and obese Americans has created matters of greater concern, and it is time that mindful eating make a comeback. Public schools are beginning to enforce healthy diets in attempt to get their young students on the right track before it is too late, and it is movements such as this that our country needs more of. American culture may resist this kind of change at first, but, as Dr. Albers advises, we need to resist the “magnetic force” that is unconscious snacking, and move forward in a way that utilizes the vast technology and resources that Americans have available to them in a healthier, more constructive manner.

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