Retirees lead the way on fruit and veg
A large number of Australians are not eating the recommended intake of fruit and vegetables, according to a CSIRO report released today. But retirees are eating much healthier than younger generations, especially those aged over 71.
The CSIRO study found that one in two Australians were not eating the recommended intake of fruit while two in every three Aussies were not getting enough vegetables.
While retirees were eating healthier, women outperformed men when it came to eating healthier, while younger adults, obese, and unemployed people were the least likely to be eating the right amount of fruit and vegetables.
The Fruit, Vegetable and Diet Score Report, produced by the CSIRO and commissioned by Horticulture Innovation Australia, compiled the dietary habits of adults across Australia over an 18 month period. With 145,975 participants nationwide, this survey is the largest of its kind ever conducted in Australia.
To help meet the benchmark, CSIRO suggests adults eat at least three serves of different vegetables every dinner time.
Research director Professor Manny Noakes said the results were disappointing.
"Many Aussies believe themselves to be healthy, yet this report shows the majority of those surveyed are not getting all the beneficial nutrients from fruit and vegetables needed for a healthy, balanced diet," said Professor Noakes.
Read more at csiro.com.au
We make lots of stews and soups and fill them with a variety of vegetables. It also saves as we only need to reheat the dinner rather than cooking from scratch every night.