Socioeconomic determinants of eating behavior

Abstract

Dietary modifications are an effective method for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases and their risk factors: hypertension, hyperglycemia, obesity, dyslipidemia. Large-scale studies have shown the causal relationship between eating behavior (predominant consumption of fruits, vegetables, processed meat or trans fats) and major socially significant diseases (coronary artery disease, diabetes, cancer). Based on the data obtained, national and international dietary guidelines have been developed to prevent these diseases. However, adherence to healthy diets is still low. In this connection, many researches have suggested the influence of socioeconomic status on eating behavior. The aim of this review was to analyze and discuss the main socioeconomic determinants (income and education level, marital status) of the population’s eating behavior.