Michelle Minnaar

The International Food Information Council (IFIC) 2024 Food and Health Survey reports nearly three-quarters of Americans (74%) believe that the food they consume significantly impacts their overall mental and emotional well-being.

The deep dive into the food habits of more than a thousand Americans between the ages of 18 to 80 reveals a majority identify “fresh” food as the top definition of healthy eating.

America’s approach to healthy eating is changing. The pandemic accelerated an upward trend towards healthier living and better diets, and now we stand at the brink of a new era of food consumption, where fresh, locally grown ingredients come to the forefront at the expense of ingrained bad habits.

There are ongoing issues, such as economic challenges, to overcome. Yet, with emerging evidence of the benefits of preventive nutrition and the catastrophic impact of ultra-processed food on the nation’s health, a shift towards health-conscious eating seems inevitable.

New generation of foodies

The newfound focus on healthy eating is much more pronounced in younger generations’ habits and mentality. The IFIC survey shows that Gen Zers and millennials are far more likely to subscribe to healthy eating plans than their Gen Xer and baby boomer counterparts.

Around 80% of millennials strongly consider health benefits when selecting foods, compared to 64% of baby boomers.

This mirrors growing interest in health-conscious eating and a better understanding of food’s effects on physical and mental well-being.

Fall of ultra-processed foods

The negative impact of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) on the health of ordinary Americans is well-documented. Yet, prepackaged, processed food has been a fundamental part of the American diet since the mid-20th century.

First, there’s the effect on your brain. A recent Neurology study found that a 10% uptick in UPF consumption raises the risk of cognitive impairment by 16%.

Then there’s weight gain. A National Institutes of Health study found that people who ate a diet high in UPFs ate an extra 500 calories a day and gained an average of two pounds per month compared to those who ate minimal processed food.

What’s more, a Harvard-led study found that those who eat the highest amounts of UPFs have a 4% higher risk of all-cause mortality.

While only a third of Americans are familiar with the term “ultra-processed foods,” younger generations are twice as likely to recognize it as their older counterparts. Consumer trends again point to a growing understanding of healthy eating habits.

There’s certainly reason to be optimistic. Perhaps the most telling statistic from the 2024 Food and Health Survey is that 49% of Americans say they eat more fresh food this year than last.

Plant-based bliss

The growing interest in plant-based diets is evident everywhere you look — ever-expanding vegan restaurant options, exclusively vegan establishments, and the explosive popularity of plant-based recipes online.

A recent study by the European Heart Journal found that vegetarian and vegan diets are associated with reduced inflammation and body weight as well as lower risk of cancer and heart disease.

Stanford Medicine researchers compared the diets of 22 pairs of identical twins, finding that switching to a vegan diet can lead to notable improvements in cardiovascular health in as little as eight weeks.

Compelling evidence about the health benefits of a plant-based diet seem to be making headway.

Less saturated fat

Nearly half of Americans say they will adapt their diets to avoid ingredients and meals high in saturated fat. The IFIC report finds reducing the amount of beef (46%) and pork (44%) is the main priority among those trying to cut saturated fats.

Healthy eating recipes

Americans increasingly look to other cultures’ cuisines for ideas on how to cook delicious low-fat vegan or vegetarian dishes. For example, North African dishes like couscous stuffed peppers bring subtle spice and smoky, sweet flavors that satisfy even the most particular palates.

In the sweltering summer months, a chill, crisp Asian cucumber salad is like a breath of fresh air, with a lightness and a freshness that epitomizes good homemade healthy food.

Homes making dietary shifts can also take simple homegrown ingredients and give them a new twist. Easy roasted asparagus uses everyday kitchen staples like garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice alongside a sprinkle of salt and a twist of the pepper grinder to create a quick and easy lunch or the perfect side dish.

---

This article was produced by Media Decision and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks. Michelle Minnaar’s work can also be found at greedygourmet.com.