Abstract
First in this short paper, neural control mechanisms of feeding are reviewed, referring to the classical concept of hypothalamic feeding and satiety centers, and to recently identified hormones such as leptin and ghrelin. Then environmental influences on our eating are discussed, since eating, the most fundamental behavior for life, is under strong influence of cultures of the present society. In the developed countries, people under stress tend to eat too much since foods are so delicious and sweet that eating is a pleasure; they often suffer from life-style-related diseases. Also in the developed countries, many young people suffer from eating disorders, that is, anorexia and bulimia nervosa. Their behavior (refusing to eat, or eating-vomiting) is on one hand to appeal their anxiety accumulated in their childhood, and to survive extremely stressful days on the other.
