Native American Obesity: An Economic Model of the "Thrifty Gene" Theory
Native American obesity is hypothesized to result from three potential causes: (1) a genetic predisposition, or the "thrifty gene," (2) a rational addiction to nutrients, and (3) dietary adjustment costs. These hypotheses are tested using a two-stage household production approach and scanner data from a panel of Native and non-Native supermarkets. Nutrient intake for both groups is strongly influenced by adjustment costs. Native Americans tend to place higher implicit valuations on protein relative to fats and carbohydrates compared to non-Natives. Consequently, reductions in real carbohydrate prices over time may be a cause of high incidence of Native American obesity. Copyright 2006 American Agricultural Economics Association.
Year of publication: |
2006
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Authors: | Richards, Timothy J. ; Patterson, Paul M. |
Published in: |
American Journal of Agricultural Economics. - American Agricultural Economics Association. - Vol. 88.2006, 3, p. 542-560
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Publisher: |
American Agricultural Economics Association |
Saved in:
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