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FEEDING OUR DESIRES

Published: 14 April 2009

In Western societies as well as in a growing number of developing nations, food has be-come over-abundant and often calorie-rich. This phenomenon, which in the lifetime of humanity has occurred in less than a hiccup, poses a serious challenge to human biology.

Our bodies evolved to survive under conditions in which food was scarce, leading to a basic motivational drive to consume as much food as possible when it is available. The failure of so many individuals, whether for genetic or behavioural reasons, to meet the challenges posed by food abundance has led to a pandemic of obesity -- with particularly alarming rates of childhood obesity. The health consequences and health-care costs are enormous, to governments, business and individuals.

National Post, April 14, 2009

 

 

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