Do you opt for the health option?
Eating more nutritious food appears to come more naturally for those born in the 1950s with nearly half of people questioned in this age bracket stating that they eat a healthy balanced diet every day compared with only 19 per centof the 18-30 demographic who appear instead to prioritise speed and convenience over nutrition and a balanced diet.
A survey of 3,000 adults conducted for PAGB, the UK trade association for over the counter medicines and food supplements, has revealed that the typical evening meal of nearly 1 in 10 (9%) 18-30 year olds contains no vegetables at all, with convenience foods like pizza, pasta and takeaway food making a regular appearance at least once a week. On the other hand, more than 1 in 5 (21%) of the 60+ group said they never consumed this type of food and more than a third (35%) incorporate three vegetables into their typical evening meal.
With the Queen celebrating her Diamond Jubilee year in the best of health, questions are arising over what impact pre-prepared and processed foods will have on the health of future generations. Psychology lecturer, Dr Mike Green from Aston University in Birmingham remarks: “During the 1940s individual food choice was driven by local produce initiatives like ‘Dig for Britain’ which enabled people to eat a balanced diet across the different food groups and rationed foods such as breakfast cereals were fortified to improve their nutritional quality. War time rationing extended until the mid 1950s and while strict, did no one any harm. The 1950s generation has a much stronger mentality and understanding of the value of food and what it means. The inception of TV dinners and convenience foods in the 1970s, combined with the abundance and choice of food in later years means there is now a significant number of young people who pay less attention to what they are eating and instead are more likely to select convenience food options which are often high in calories, fat and salt but low in nutritional value.”
A medicinal spoonful of cod liver oil, rich in omega 3, was central to a 1950s upbringing when oily fish like salmon and mackerel were harder to come by. 60 years on, with availability at an all time high, the research found nearly half (47%) of 18-30 year old respondents fail to adhere to Government guidelines which recommend two portions of fish a week, one of which should be an oily fish such as salmon or mackerel.1 In comparison, 72% of the 60+ group do eat the recommended amount. Helen Bond, State Registered Dietitian and member of the British Dietetics Association (BDA), comments: “Vitamin C tablets and cod liver oil was part and parcel of a war time upbringing. A daily dose of cod liver oil remained compulsory until 1971 when it was discontinued because people refused to take the oil.2 The enforcement of a daily mouthful of cod liver oil provided the assurance that all population groups were getting the right amounts of vitamins A and D and omega 3 fatty acids. Nowadays, many people struggle with their fish oil intake which has resulted in a high proportion of people who are missing out on the nutritional value that a plate of salmon or mackerel can bring.
“Omega 3s have been linked to health in lots of different ways, including helping to lessen pain intensity in the joints of people with rheumatoid arthritis, protect against dementia, as well as positive effects on depression. Studies have shown omega 3 to be especially important for a healthy heart, helping to lower triglyceride levels, preventing blood clots and regulating heart rhythm. For those who don’t like fish and who struggle to get their intake, fish oil supplements, such as cod liver oil capsules, are an excellent alternative worth considering, but we should always check with a doctor or pharmacist first what dosage we should be taking and any interactions with some of our medicines.”
While a roast dinner remains a firm favourite with people over 30, spaghetti bolognaise takes the lead as the most regularly eaten meal by the 18-30 group. “International cuisines have a greater influence on this demographic,” advises Helen. “In the last couple of decades, there have been considerable changes in the type of foods purchased for consumption in the home which has had an impact on nutrient intake from the diet. Data from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey indicates that current nutrient intake in the UK population is below the recommended intake for a number of essential vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, especially in older children, young adults and older people living in institutions. Nutrients that are of particular concern include calcium, iodine, magnesium, potassium, iron, omega 3, fibre and vitamin D.”
Nearly half (48%) of the younger people questioned voiced concerns about getting their nutritional needs from their diet. Despite this, only 15% of the 18-30 age group are proactive in taking a daily food supplement. In comparison, those aged 60+ appear most likely to take the initiative in supporting their nutritional intake, with nearly a third (31%) saying they take a daily food supplement.
“Everyone should aim to eat as varied and balanced a diet as possible to provide their nutritional needs, avoiding too many processed, fatty, salty and sugary foods. Food supplements in the recommended amounts offer a proven means to boost intakes of essential nutrients and 'fill the gaps' where consumption of a balanced diet is not possible or is not being achieved,” concludes Helen. “There is clear evidence of a 'continuing dietary gap' with many of us simply not managing to achieve the recommended intakes for many nutrients. Therefore we should think about taking food supplements such as multivitamin and mineral supplements to give us additional support to ensure we are receiving the recommended levels to help prevent nutritional deficiencies.”
Tagged in Home Health The National Diet University Healthy eating