Hunger Notes - Psych

    Master this deck with 20 terms through effective study methods.

    Generated from uploaded pdf

    Created by @River

    What is the primary source of energy for the body and how does it affect hunger?

    Glucose is the form of sugar that circulates in the blood and serves as the body's major energy source. When glucose levels are low, we feel hungry, prompting signals from the liver, stomach, and intestines to the brain to initiate eating.

    How does the hypothalamus regulate hunger?

    The hypothalamus is a brain structure the size of a pea that regulates hunger and other bodily functions. Alterations to this area can lead to significant changes in weight, either starving or fattening an individual.

    What is Set Point Theory and how does it relate to body weight?

    Set Point Theory posits that the body has a particular level of weight that it strives to maintain, influenced by various physiological factors.

    What factors influence Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)?

    BMR is influenced by genetics, age, sex, and size. It represents the body's resting rate of energy expenditure, with larger individuals generally having a higher BMR.

    What is the difference between Basal Metabolic Rate and Settling Point Theory?

    Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) refers to the energy used at rest, while Settling Point Theory suggests that a person's weight stabilizes in response to caloric intake and energy expenditure.

    What are the physiological and social effects of obesity?

    Obesity, defined as a BMI of 30 or more, can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory problems, and certain cancers, as well as social stigmas and challenges.

    What biological factors contribute to obesity?

    Biological factors that contribute to obesity include genetic predispositions that can determine a higher set point, slower metabolism, and preferences for sedentary activities over physical ones.

    How do social influences affect eating behavior?

    Social influences such as social facilitation (eating more in groups), unit bias (eating more when given larger portions), and the variety of food available can significantly increase food intake.

    What is anorexia nervosa and who is most affected by it?

    Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, leading individuals to refuse to eat. It predominantly affects female teenagers, often resulting in skeletal-like bodies.

    What is bulimia and how does it manifest?

    Bulimia is an eating disorder where individuals binge on large amounts of food followed by purging behaviors such as vomiting, fasting, or using laxatives to prevent weight gain.

    What role do genetics play in determining metabolism and body weight?

    Genetics can significantly influence metabolism and body weight by setting metabolic rates, determining body composition, and influencing preferences for physical activity versus sedentary behavior.

    Why is obesity considered a rising global issue?

    Obesity is increasingly recognized as a global issue due to rising food consumption and decreasing physical activity levels, leading to higher rates of obesity worldwide.

    What are the implications of a high BMR for individuals?

    Individuals with a high Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) tend to burn more calories at rest, which can aid in weight management and influence overall health and fitness levels.

    How does age affect Basal Metabolic Rate?

    As individuals age, their Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) typically slows down, leading to a decrease in energy expenditure and potentially contributing to weight gain if caloric intake remains unchanged.

    What is the impact of societal standards on eating disorders?

    Societal standards that prioritize thinness and beauty can contribute to the development of eating disorders, as individuals may feel pressured to conform to unrealistic body ideals.

    How does the concept of 'unit bias' influence portion sizes?

    Unit bias refers to the tendency to consume more food when presented with larger portion sizes, leading to increased caloric intake regardless of actual hunger levels.

    What are the potential health risks associated with obesity?

    Obesity is associated with numerous health risks, including increased likelihood of developing chronic conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and respiratory issues.

    What strategies can be employed to combat obesity?

    Strategies to combat obesity include promoting healthier eating habits, increasing physical activity, addressing genetic predispositions, and creating supportive social environments.

    What is the relationship between muscle mass and metabolism?

    Muscle mass is metabolically active tissue that burns more calories than fat, meaning individuals with higher muscle mass generally have a higher metabolism and BMR.

    How do environmental factors contribute to obesity?

    Environmental factors such as access to healthy foods, opportunities for physical activity, and societal norms around eating can significantly influence obesity rates in populations.