If you've ever combed the supermarket for affordable, quality, nutritious foods, you know how difficult it can be. With rising food costs, the need for convenience and the frequent inability to read and understand ingredients lists, you may end up with a basket full of unhealthy foods. However, even with these challenges, six in 10 Americans consider nutrition "very important," according to a recent poll by the American Dietetic Association. Though the number of people concerned about nutrition has increased in the past few decades, life-threatening, diet-related problems like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, digestive conditions and obesity plague the population.
Economy
The ADA reports that over half of those polled believe "organic" foods to be healthier. This, however, may not be enough for Americans to purchase them regularly, as "sticker shock" from common organic products has some wondering if they are worth it, reports the New York Times. Rising fuel costs, higher demand, supply shortages and production costs are all contemporary factors contributing to the price increases for both organically produced and standard foods.
Fast Food Culture
In 30 years, the number of hours worked by Americans has increased by 20 percent, states the Journal of the American College of Nutrition. With dwindling time, families find the "fast food" meal more convenient and, in some cases, less expensive than traditional home cooking. Though nearly half of those surveyed by the ADA actively seek diet information and believe there are foods they should not eat, they may still be inclined to grab fast meals that lack nutritional value. Additionally, those who indulge in fast food enjoy it and do not wish to give up their favorite foods.
Education
If you've heard the 411 about low-fat and trans-fat foods, you're not alone. More than 90 percent of Americans know that information, but less than half have heard about probiotics and allergen-free foods. It's not surprising the ADA reported that Americans strongly believe they hear more information about the no-no foods as opposed to healthy ones, regardless of attempts to increase nutritional awareness.
Solutions
With seven out of 10 Americans dying from chronic disease these days, solutions are being addressed by organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the ADA. In addition to knowledge, motivation is a key to changing your diet, says the Mayo Clinic. You need to know why you want to make nutritional changes. It may also help to write down your goals and look at them often.
Future Trends
Recent research shows a trend toward group wellness coaching. Wellness coaching can not only improve health for individuals but may "leverage change" in the overall population, says author and wellness coach trainer Rebecca McLean. Wellness consultants create community and accountability within a corporation. Ultimately, these group health programs increase employee productivity and overall contentment, McLean explains.
References
- American Dietetic Association: Nutrition and You: Trends 2008 Presentation
- New York Times: Sticker Shock in the Organic Aisles
- Journal of the American College of Nutrition: Fast Food Consumption of U.S. Adults
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion
- Mayo Clinic: Weight Loss: 6 Strategies for Success
- The New Trend: Health and Wellness Coaching; Rebecca McLean; Dr. Roger Jahnke; 2010
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