"Already Doing It?"
by Dana Denis, MSPH., RD (topic expert: nutrition)

Nutrition and You: Trends 2008 results are in. This is a survey conducted by the American Dietetic Association, utilizing an outside agency, which included 783 respondents from across the United States. The purpose of the survey is to investigate consumer's attitudes related to food and nutrition and to identify trends over time. The first survey was conducted in 1991 with the 2008 survey being the 5th follow-up survey.

So how did the public respond?

The first part of the survey looked at the public's view of following a healthy diet and the importance of regular exercise. When asked to categorize themselves in one of three categories, this is how they rated:
43% "I'm Already Doing It" - doing all they can to maintain a healthy diet and exercise
38% "I Know I Should" - know the importance but have not taken significant actions
19% "Don't Bother Me - do not feel it is important and are not concerned.

There was an improvement in all categories over the last survey from 2002. Women were more likely than men to think both were important and younger adults were less likely to think nutrition was important, but exercise was viewed as important by all age groups.

What were the reasons given for not doing more to achieve balanced nutrition and a healthy diet? Participants were asked if any of these statements were a major or minor reason or not a reason at all for doing more.
79% responded that they were satisfied with the way they currently eat.
73% do not want to give up the foods they like.
54% stated it takes too much time to keep track of their diet.
52% need more practical tips to help them eat right and
41% don't know or understand the guidelines for diet and nutrition.

When asked about their knowledge and consumption of health-related foods, respondents had heard most about low-fat foods and foods containing trans-fat. They had heard least about allergen-free foods and probiotics.

Over the last 5 years, 48% of those surveyed increased consumption of low fat foods, 38% of omega-3 fatty acids, 36% of garlic, 34% of low-sugar foods and 32% of low sodium foods.

On the other hand, the foods most likely decreased were foods containing trans-fat (56% of respondents), followed by a reduction in low-sugar foods (20%), alternative sweeteners (18%) and low-carbohydrate products (17%).

There has also been an increased consumption of whole grains (56%), vegetables (50%), fruits (48%); and a decreased consumption of dairy (62%), pork (54%) and beef (49%).

Over half of those surveyed believe organic fruits and vegetables are a healthier choice, and 94% believe whole grain bread is healthier than white bread.

Where do people obtain the majority of their nutrition information? It is still primarily from television and magazines; however these have decreased from past years, while the internet has grown significantly as a source of information.

But is this information reliable? Although television was still the primary source of information, only 14% felt this was a reliable source of information. Registered dietitians were rated "very credible" by 78% of respondents, doctors by 61% and nurses by 57%. Internet scored 22% while food manufacturers scored the lowest with a "very credible" rating by 9%.

What do we do with this information? This type of survey gives health professionals and the food industry information on the attitudes toward nutrition and exercise, what needs to be better communicated, where to communicate that information, how to target specific audiences and can also direct food trends. Remember, this information is how the respondents replied and not necessarily the recommendations of health care providers.

Where do you fit into this? Are you "already doing it?" What have you done to improve your diet or lead an more active lifestyle that includes regular exercise? Is there more you can do?

Well you have made a start by being a member of WalkStyles. As we have seen the internet is a rising source of information for consumers. But you must be careful that you are receiving reliable information. It is important to look for resources like WalkStyles that elicit the support and information of qualified professionals with expertise in the various areas that define a healthy lifestyle.

Congratulations on this step. What is the next step you can take toward making healthier choices?

For more information about ADA's Nutrition and You: Trends 2008 survey visit http://www.eatright.org/ada/files/Overall_Findings_ADA_Trends_2008.pdf