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    SA just loves junk food: study

    South Africans are not healthy, yet half of us feel too much of a fuss is made about nutrition.
    Image courtesy of Grant Cochrane /
    Image courtesy of Grant Cochrane / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

    This was revealed at the release yesterday, 24 October 2012, of the findings of the Nestlé Rainbow Monitor, a study by TNS Surveys.

    The study shows that half of South Africans treat health casually and that 62% are not interested in health or nutrition issues.

    The findings also show a disconnection between people's high-energy levels and feelings of health and the actual state of their health.

    For example, 58% admit to not doing any exercise, but 91% feel energetic and well.

    Despite the lack of interest in health, 33% of women are overweight and 31% obese.

    40% of men are overweight or obese.

    TNS director Neil Higgs said people have misconceptions about what constitutes healthy food, saying it is thought of as food that keeps them full for a long time.

    People also perceive healthy food to be more expensive and want to see the results of healthy eating immediately.

    Key findings show that:

    • 55% of people think it is more important to feel full than choose food that is healthy; and
    • 77% choose food on taste, rather than its perceived healthiness, and think healthy food does not taste good.

    The study also highlights the growing gap between the rich and poor.

    • 41% admit to eating more than they should, whereas almost one third do not get enough to eat;
    • More than 25% of children do not get enough to eat;
    • Half of children take a packed lunch to school; and
    • 63% admit to eating junk food often.

    What is also of concern is the fact that 63% of parents admit they have problems convincing their children to eat healthily.

    The survey shows 61% of children are looked after by single parents.

    Source: The Times

    Source: I-Net Bridge

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