(WASHINGTON, DC, March 20, 2006) – As a consequence of the ongoing debate over low-carbohydrate versus low-fat diets in recent years, new research suggests that consumers are still largely confused about the role that carbs should play in their diet. On the other hand, consumers are responding to public health advice to consume more fiber and whole grains. This according to an online survey, commissioned by the International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation, which is designed to develop a comprehensive picture of Americans’ perceptions and behaviors regarding key health related issues including diet, physical activity, and weight. Responses were gathered from 1,000 Americans age 18 or older in November 2005. (See Methodology under Supporting Data below)
Key Findings
Among the more dramatic conclusions: nearly half of those surveyed (42%) say nutrition information is contradictory.
Also:
- One out of five (20%) consumers still think the calories contained in carbohydrates (as opposed to calories in and of themselves) are most likely to cause weight gain. (See Data Slide 1 under Supporting Data below)
- A large majority (75%) of consumers said they are trying to consume more fiber and whole grains. (See Data Slide 2 under Supporting Data below)
- Although a majority say they’re trying to consume less sugars (69%) and refined carbohydrates (56%), only around one in six consumers say, on an unaided basis, they’ve actually reduced consumption of sugar. (See Data Slides 3 and 4 under Supporting Data below)
Glycemic Index Confusion
Given the widespread publicity around the glycemic index (GI), including its inclusion in some recent fad diet books, the IFIC Foundation surveyed consumers on their understanding of the GI as a tool for weight management.
In fact, only around one in three consumers is even aware of the term glycemic index; and only about 5 percent say they use the GI most of the time or almost always in an attempt to manage weight. This finding echoes the 2005 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee report that stated, “Current evidence suggests that the glycemic index and/or glycemic load are of little utility for providing dietary guidance for Americans.” (See Data Slide 5 under Supporting Data below)
“Our research suggests that consumers, for all the publicity concerning carbohydrates and health, are still confused about weight management and how to include carbohydrates in a healthful diet,” said Susan T. Borra, RD, president of the IFIC Foundation and past president of the American Dietetic Association (ADA). “Fads and quick fixes, though attractive, are not effective tools for getting to a healthful diet.”
This is the third research summary released by The IFIC Foundation Food & Health Survey, a tracking survey intended to provide ongoing information on consumer attitudes toward health, nutrition, and food. Supporting data tables for this information can be found at http://www.ific.org/newsroom/releases. Additional findings on functional components in food will be released over the next few weeks. Findings on calorie perceptions and dietary fats were distributed on March 2 and March 13, 2006, respectively. The IFIC Foundation plans to replicate this research every 12-24 months.
Supporting Data
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The International Food Information Council (IFIC) Foundation will effectively communicate science-based information on health, nutrition, and food safety for the public good. The IFIC Foundation is supported primarily by the broad-based food, beverage and agricultural industries. IFIC Foundation materials are available at http://ific.org/newsroom. For interviews with scientific experts or for more information, call (202) 296-6540.
