CLARIFYING FOOD AND WEIGHT GUIDELINES IN AN INCREASINGLY OVERWEIGHT SOCIETY
As evidence of an overweight American public mounts, some researchers are questioning how much people actually know about dietary guidelines and obesity. While some confusion exists, most people are concerned about eating properly.
Scientists at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle found evidence of "nutrition backlash." As lead author Ruth Patterson, M.D., explains, "The more negative and confused people feel about dietary recommendations, the more likely they are to eat a fat-laden diet" Her survey, published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, also found that most people remain worried about too much fat.
The confusion over proper diet may extend to at least one result of eating poorly: obesity. While obesity has increased by nearly 60% since 1991, fewer people describe themselves as fat, says a recent Gallup poll. In 1990, 48% believed they were overweight. while today, only 39% say so.
