Over half (55%) of adults do not completely understand the impact diet has on their health, with the incidence of such higher with those aged 55+ according to a new survey by Nestlé Lindahls.
The research was commissioned to mark the launch of the Lindahls #GoodMove campaign aimed to aimed to celebrate all good moves, no matter how big or small they may be. As part of the campaign launch, the brand has also teamed up with radio and TV broadcaster Anna Geary and Perpetua Fitness.
Encouragingly, the survey also revealed that 85% of adults would like to eat healthier and more nutritious food. However, almost half (45%) of those surveyed admitted to feeling overwhelmed when it comes to maintaining a healthy balanced diet.
So, what are the barriers Irish people face when it comes to eating a more nutritional diet? Cost is the main factor at 63% followed by being time poor (26%), as well as a lack of understanding around nutritional foods (25%). Interestingly, being time poor was a greater barrier for those aged 25 -34 years (39%). Furthermore, over one-third (37%) of Irish adults believe there is a lot of ‘nutritional noise’ nowadays and this is more relevant for women at 41%.
Despite this, over half (55%) of those surveyed claim they increased their actions to have a healthier diet, with those with those aged 25-34 (61%) most likely to have done so. The main reasons for increasing these actions were cited as weight management (55%) followed by health concerns (53%). To achieve a healthy diet, 45% of Irish people believe the level of protein consumed is an important part. Furthermore, 38% of Irish people claim they try to eat a nutritionally balance diet most of the time.
The Nestlé Lindahls survey also found in relation to physical activity that almost a quarter (24%) of Irish people consider themselves very active with 59% claiming to be somewhat physically active. In terms of physical activity, walking topped the poll at 58%, with four coming out as the average number of days a week respondents were active.
Commenting on the findings, Nutritionist Laura Kealy said, "While it's encouraging to see that 85% of Irish adults aspire to eat healthier, the challenges they face (such as time constraints, cost, and nutritional confusion) highlight the need for clear, effective, practical guidance. Nutrition doesn't have to be overwhelming; with simple, informed steps, we can make healthy eating achievable for everyone. Understanding the importance of diet on overall health is key, yet many are still navigating the noise around nutrition. It’s great to see Nestlé Lindahls simplifying this message through their products”.
Priyanca Masrani, Brand Manager at Lindahls said: “The research is encouraging and it is clear that consumers are being physically active while trying to eat a more balanced diet, which is really positive. At Nestlé Lindahls, we aim to support and empower consumers by creating great tasting, convenient products that are high in protein, low in fat and sugar and are easily accessible. The brand goes further through our #LindahlsGoodMove campaign and celebrates those simple ‘good moves’ that people make every day to live a more active and healthier lifestyle.”
The Lindahls Kvarg and Pro+ protein yogurt range is available in stores nationwide. Packed with a minimum of 15g of protein in every pot, Lindahls comes in a range of indulgent and fruity flavours.
For more information, visit www.lindahls.co.uk
Slán go fóill.