Dietitians warn on state of Canadians’ diets

The four basic food groups for a healthy diet are recognized as grains, fruit and vegetables, dairy and grains. Indeed the latest set dietary guidelines for Canadians, published in 2007, encourage people to focus on vegetables, fruit and whole grains; to include milk, meat and their alternatives; and to limit foods that are high in calories, fat, sugar and salt.

But the new research, commissioned by Dietitians of Canada and Dairy Farmers of Canada, indicates that many are not heeding the advice. As the consequences for public health may be grave, dietitians suggest there may be more of a need for communication on just why these foods are important.

The survey was conducted in August 2009 by IPSOS Reid, who asked over 2000 adults in Canada what they had been eating and drinking in the last 24 hours.

When the results were analysed by dietitians, they found that consumption of all four food groups was way below recommended levels.

In particular, a significant number of children had not been eating any fruit and vegetables or any dairy in the last day.

However when they were made aware of the potential health implications of not eating such healthy foods, such as a higher risk of high blood pressure, certain cancers, and other chronic diseases, the participants said they were motivated to increase their intake.

Mary Sue Waisman, manager of public affairs and communications at Dietitians of Canada called on health professionals to do more to explain the health benefits of the food groups.

Waisman also commented on the barriers to healthy eating that the survey showed up – that people find it challenging to eat well. “For example, they need help with how to include healthier food choices in their daily meal plan, how to prepare and cook healthy foods that don’t break the food budget”.​