According to a past publication of the International Food Information Council Foundation, Food and
Health Survey: Consumer Attitudes toward Food, Nutrition & Health, consumers are “fuzzy on the
details”. Survey results indicate that consumers understand that they have to make dietary and lifestyle
changes to maintain and promote good health but the real specifics on how to do it correctly, still eludes
some. For example, while Americans are concerned about their weight and frequently check calorie
information on product labels, nine out of ten of them are unable to accurately estimate their individual
caloric requirement for the day. The survey further revealed that the average consumer is confused
about the caloric contribution of various nutrients and how to interpret food labels.
After years of many versions of dietary guidelines, food guides, food pyramids etc. there is still much
confusion about what and how much to eat. While that surely means job security for some in the
business of healthcare. It also means that we must take seriously the need for clear and consistent
communication via the media, researchers and healthcare providers. Consumers care about their health
and they want to use health information so that they can be proactive in preventing disease but they are
not all getting the message.
We need to take every opportunity to address this apparent communication disconnect.
With the holidays fast approaching, many “teachable” moments may present themselves as our clients
or patients prepare for….. or recover from the abundance of holiday culinary delights. Take the time to
provide health and nutrition advice that is accurate but also consistent with the context of people’s
lives. After all, as providers of health-care, we are responsible for translating science-based information
into messages our customers can and will use. I know I am preaching to the choir, when I say that
information should be adapted to the knowledge and educational level, lifestyle, culture and specific
needs of each person. But a reminder surely won’t hurt.