The dichotomy between perceived health and actual behavior emerges further in attitudes towards food. Two-thirds of Mintel respondents (65%) said they try to eat healthier food these days, but nearly the same percentage (59%) said they eat the foods they like regardless of calories. Similarly, just over half (52%) said they ™re on a diet, but nearly the same number (45%) feel they often overeat.

People have lofty, admirable goals of eating healthier, exercising more and treating their bodies better. Our research suggests though, that implementation of these goals is challenging. Many people need help and guidance to understand where their health is lacking and how they can improve it, recommends Krista Faron.

About half of Mintel survey respondents (51%) consider it very important to live a healthy lifestyle; another four in 10 (39%) consider it somewhat important.

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