From Stress to Snacking: Psychological Pathways and Consumer Behavior in Today’s Food Environment
摘要
This chapter explores the intricate relationship between psychological stress and eating behaviors, an area gaining increasing attention in both academic and public health spheres. Stress, whether short-term or long-lasting, can profoundly influence dietary habits, leading to patterns such as emotional eating, overeating, or, conversely, reduced appetite. Drawing from foundational psychological frameworks like the affect regulation model and the psychosomatic theory, the discussion highlights how stress can affect food preferences, portion sizes, and meal routines. The chapter also delves into the biological processes involved, particularly the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the role of cortisol in enhancing cravings for calorie-dense foods high in sugar and fat. Beyond the biological aspects, it examines key psychosocial elements such as individual coping mechanisms, body image, gender differences, and cultural background, which shape how people respond to stress in relation to eating. Adopting an interdisciplinary perspective that blends insights from psychology, neuroscience, and nutritional science, the chapter offers a comprehensive view of the stress-eating dynamic. It concludes by presenting practical, evidence-based strategies for psychological intervention, including stress reduction and cognitive-behavioral approaches designed to support healthier eating habits and improved mental well-being. Such an integrated framework is essential for informing both therapeutic practices and public health policies.