Most Americans Don’t Understand Nutrition

Now, that Halloween has passed, the holiday season is jus around the corner. And in American, holidays mean food. New data from nutrition and food tracking app, MyFitnessPal’s Nutrition IQ survey indicates that 81% of Americans claim to know basics of nutrition but 91% of the population have no idea how much salt, fiber, protein and carbs they consume daily.

The results indicated that American’s knowledge of nutrition is very basic and elementary. While people seemed to understand serving sizes, identifying foods based on nutritional value isn’t being grasped. Americans tend, on average, to overestimate calories (by 57 calories), protein (5 grams) and underestimate carbs (by 4 grams) and fats (also 4). 77% believe that two fish tacos held less calories than a cheeseburger when in fact they contain 110 more.

CEO of MyFitnessPal, Tricia Han says; “With the constant barrage of information flooding TV screens and social media feeds along with conflicting recommendations from experts, it’s no wonder that many Americans are confused when it comes to their nutritional needs. Remembering the basics while juggling a busy daily life is precisely what makes MyFitnessPal the perfect personal nutrition coach. With its robust food database, users have the power to learn about what they’re consuming and how it’s effecting their overall wellbeing and health, all in the palm of their hand.”

78% of respondents knew that bowel movements were a primary benefit of fiber but didn’t know that fiber also helps with cholesterol management, bone support and sugar management.

71% could identify avocados as a healthy fat but 93% underestimate how many grams of fat avocados have, while 66% underestimate by at least half.

Americans overestimated the calories in cheeseburgers (77%) while 29% overestimated the calories in a Caesar salad. Americans also struggle to identify carbs and fats in foods. The survey also revealed that most Americans don’t look up nutritional value before dining out or cooking at home and that keeping to their budget and meal planning is more important to them.

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