Effects of Evolution, Ecology, and Economy on Human Diet: Insights from Hunter-Gatherers and Other Small-Scale Societies

Annual Review of Nutrition Vol/Iss. 41 Annual Reviews Palo Alto, CA Published In Pages: 363-385
By Pontzer, Herman, Wood, Brian M.

Abstract

This study, primarily a review on the evolution of the human diet, also includes a small study on the distribution of meat-eating and its relationship with climate and cultural factors, namely subsistence type. The authors find that societies with subsistence strategies that prioritize fishing, hunting, or pastoralism also tend to consume more animal products, whereas those that focus on agriculture have more plant-based diets. The authors argue that these small-scale societies have a healthier approach to diet than industrialized societies regardless of their subsistence type or meat consumption.

Documents and Hypotheses Filed By:anj.droe