Recent findings from the International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation’s Food & Health Survey revealed that although we want to be healthy, most of us really don’t know how to put our thoughts into action.
The survey found that there were six “diet disconnects” that reveal how much (and how little) Americans know about diet and exercise. Read on to learn what the survey found and what you need to do to refresh your diet know-how.
1. On Calories
The Good News: Seventy percent report that they are trying to improve the healthfulness of their diet in order to lose weight.
The Bad News: Only 11 percent know the number of calories they should consume each day.
The Solution: American Dietetic Association spokeswoman Susan Moores, M.S., R.D., believes that calorie consumption is a significant piece of the weight-management puzzle. “The reality of it is that many people would prefer to not count calories,” she says. “Many people are unaware of not only how much they should have, but how that number equates to the foods they are eating and drinking.” For your daily recommended intake of calories, go to calorie-count.com.
2. On Diet & Exercise
The Good News: A clear majority (84 percent) report being physically active, for health benefits, at least once a week.
The Bad News: Nearly half (44 percent) who report being physically active say they do not “balance diet and physical activity” to manage their weight.
The Solution: For weight loss or maintenance, once a week is simply not enough. Most health-care professionals recommend you work out at least 30 minutes five times a week.
3. On Breakfast
The Good News: Ninety percent agree that breakfast is an important meal to achieve a healthful diet.
The Bad News: Less than half (49 percent) report eating breakfast every day.
The Solution: Whip up your breakfast in the form of a smoothie to save time. Check out our “Saturday Morning Smoothie” recipe for inspiration.
4. On Fats
The Good News: Concern about the types and amounts of fats consumers include in their diet is up from a year ago (72 percent vs. 66 percent), and they are specifically trying to consume less trans fat.
The Bad News: Consumers are unclear about which fats are healthful. For example, Americans report trying to consume less polyunsaturated fat, one of the fats recommended for health benefits.
The Solution: Limit saturated fats, trans fats and partially hydrogenated oils (found in prepackaged or fast foods). Choose monounsaturated fats (found in olive, canola and peanut oils and avocados) and polyunsaturated fat (found in safflower, sesame, soy and sunflower-seed oils and nuts). Foods with omega-3 fatty acids (found in flaxseed oil and fish) are also a good choice.
5. On Carbs
The Good News: More than 70 percent say they are trying to consume more carbohydrates like whole grains.
The Bad News: More than 50 percent remain concerned with the amount of carbohydrates they consume, which is not surprising given the attention to fad diets that promote decreased consumption of carbohydrates.
The Solution: If you are trying to lose weight, choose high-fiber carbohydrates (found in whole-grain foods) that take longer to digest, leaving you feeling fuller, longer. “I’m glad that consumers are understanding the importance of healthier carbs like whole grains and fiber as part of a balanced diet,” says Melina Jampolis, M.D. “I would definitely advise against consuming less than three servings a day of whole grains long term if you are aiming for optimal health.” For more reasons why you need carbs in your diet, click here.
6. On Health Benefits
The Good News: Consumers agree that consuming specific foods and beverages can provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
The Bad News: More than 50 percent of Americans say they currently do not consume foods or beverages that deliver these benefits.
The Solution: Let’s face it — you know a piece of fruit is better for you than a Twinkie. The best way to change your habits is to make smart choices at the grocery store. For a comprehensive list of healthy foods to buy at the market, check out our shopping list.
© 2008, VIV Publishing, LLC., Zinio, LLC. - San Francisco - New York - London - Barcelona - Taipei - Sydney - All rights reserved.
One Reader Comment:
Very interesting.