334 Chapter 13 Nutrition Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Eating right requires more than knowing the names of the nutrients. You also need to know how to choose a variety of foods that will supply those nutrients. Influences on Food Choices Food choices vary because of the different infl uences that affect individual food preferences. Some of these infl uences are physical, emotional, social, or cultural factors. Physical factors include a person’s age, level of activity, and state of health. Someone with diabetes must choose foods more carefully than someone who does not have diabetes. An athlete can eat many foods without gaining weight, but a less-active person will likely gain weight. Wise people choose foods that are best for their physical health. Emotional needs may infl uence food choices. For instance, some people may eat more when they are happy or sad. Others may have no appetite when they are excited or upset. Social infl uences impact food choices because people tend to eat the foods others around them are eating. You may avoid high-fat foods at lunch if your friends are weight-conscious. On the other hand, you may overeat at a party where everyone is eating appetizers and snacks all night. Cultural factors will also affect the foods you eat. For example, a Jewish family might eat traditional potato latkes, but avoid eating shrimp because of dietary law. A family living close to the coast might eat lobster regularly because it is affordable. A family in the Midwest might order lobster only on special occasions because of the expense. Every person makes personal food choices. Think of the infl uences that help direct your choices. Every food has the potential to make a dietary contribution. Be sure you choose foods that will keep you healthy. MyPlate An easy way to plan a nutritious diet is to choose foods using the MyPlate food guidance system developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. MyPlate permits a personalized approach to healthful eating, 13-6. It groups foods based on their similarity in nutrient content. The food groups are fruits, grains, vegetables, protein, and dairy. Oils are not a food group, but are essential for good health. The MyPlate symbol is a simple visual reminder of how consumers 13-6 The MyPlate symbol illus- trates five main food groups that are the foundation of a nourishing diet. Emotional Eating Emotional eating means using food as a method to reduce stress or cope with a challenge. People often choose comfort foods, or foods they associate with happy memories of family and childhood, when emotionally eating. Emotional eating can sometimes lead to overeating. If you suspect you use food as a coping mechanism, ask yourself why you are eating. Are you eating to satisfy hunger or as a response to stress? Mental Health Awareness