Norwegian Men Less Likely to Change Diet, Survey Finds

A recent nationwide survey in Norway has shed light on a notable gender difference in dietary habits and intentions. The findings indicate that men are significantly less proactive than women when it comes to modifying their food intake, with nearly double the number of men reporting they have never attempted to alter their eating habits. This reluctance extends to a lower expressed interest in consuming more fruits and vegetables among men compared to women.

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Nearly twice as many men as women answer that they have never tried to change their eating habits.

Conducted by Respons Analyse for the Norwegian Information Office for Fruits and Vegetables (OFG), the survey of 1,100 individuals aged 18 to 92 revealed that only 29% of men wish to eat more greens, fruits, and berries, a figure that rises to 41% among women. Senior nutrition advisor Iselin Sagen from OFG suggests that this disparity might stem from different perceptions of dietary change. She posits that some individuals, regardless of gender, may already feel their diet is healthy, while others may simply not prioritize it. Sagen advocates for a more positive approach, focusing on increasing intake of healthy foods rather than imposing restrictions.

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Men are also less likely than women to be concerned with eating more vegetables, salads, fruits, and berries.

Compounding this issue is the fact that both men and women in Norway are falling short of recommended dietary guidelines. Data from the '5 a day Europe' survey indicates that men consume an average of three portions of fruits and vegetables daily, while women consume 3.6 portions. This is considerably less than the recommended minimum of five portions, and ideally eight, per day. The challenge is particularly evident outside of dinner, as fewer individuals incorporate fruits and vegetables into their breakfast, lunch, or snack routines.

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Among those who say they have never tried to change their eating habits, there are likely both people who already feel they eat quite healthily and people who are not so concerned about diet.

From a Norwegian public health perspective, this data is concerning. The link between adequate fruit and vegetable consumption and reduced risk of lifestyle-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease and certain cancers, is well-established. The findings underscore a need for targeted public health campaigns that resonate with men, encouraging them to adopt healthier eating habits. The traditional focus on restriction may be less effective than promoting the benefits and accessibility of incorporating more fruits and vegetables into daily meals, making it a less daunting prospect for those who have never actively pursued dietary changes.

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I have little faith in strict rules and 'no-foods'. There is little that one cannot eat a little of – it is primarily about quantities.