Vegan and vegetarian diets appear to be among the top food trends, but there is evidence that some people have been eating a predominantly plant-based or vegetarian diet for centuries. However, it wasn’t until 1944 that the term “vegan” was coined.
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Following a healthy eating pattern is important at every stage of our lives. However, as we age, some of our specific nutrition needs change. For example, as we get older we often need fewer calories but still have similar, or even increased nutrient needs, so it’s especially important to make every bite count. So if you’re an older adult, exactly which foods and nutrients should you be paying special attention to, and why? The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) can help you answer this question. The DGA provide science-based advice on what to eat and drink to promote health, reduce the risk of chronic disease and meet nutrient needs through every stage of life, including for older adults. What are the Special Nutrition Considerations to Keep in Mind for Healthy Aging? Calcium and Vitamin D Calcium and vitamin D promote bone health throughout life and help to prevent osteoporosis. Examples of foods high in calcium include cheese, milk, yogurt and sardines, as well as fortified beverages such as orange juice. Examples of foods high in vitamin D include sockeye salmon and rainbow trout. Breakfast cereals, milk and non-dairy milk alternatives are good sources of both calcium and vitamin D. Dietary Fiber Dietary fiber is a key part of good gut and bowel health, which can promote adequate digestion and absorption of several nutrients. Fiber can also help keep you regular. To get more fiber in your diet, look to vegetables, beans, lentils and whole grains. Protein Protein is important for muscle mass, strength and bone health. Try to include a variety of plant and animal protein sources in your diet, including seafood, dairy, lean meats, poultry, eggs, tofu, beans, peas and lentils. Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12 is important for metabolism, heart, nerve and muscle health. Absorption of vitamin B12 […]
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Welcome to the IFIC Caffeine Toolkit. Here, you’ll find consumer insights, webinars, shareable resources and more.
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Highlights The Basics Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that also functions as a hormone in our bodies. It plays a critical role in building and maintaining skeletal health, since it helps the body absorb calcium and maintain appropriate concentrations of calcium and phosphorus, two of the primary minerals in bone. It’s also important for muscle function, helping nerves carry signals throughout the body and supporting the immune system. Vitamin D’s effect on preventing and treating a variety of health conditions is being actively studied, though no benefits have emerged as strongly as its role in preventing osteoporosis, osteomalacia and rickets (see “Vitamin D and Health,” below). Humans can get vitamin D in three ways: eating certain foods, taking dietary supplements and making it in our skin after sun exposure. When ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun comes in contact with the skin, vitamin D synthesis is triggered. However, this form of vitamin D is inactive and needs to undergo two activation steps before being used by the body. The amount of active vitamin D in our body is tightly regulated, so blood measurements of vitamin D status often measure the concentration of a form of inactive vitamin D known as 25(OH)D. The amount of 25(OH)D in the blood accounts for vitamin D consumed through foods and supplements as well as vitamin D made in the skin. Vitamin D and Health There is conclusive evidence that vitamin D plays an indispensable role in bone health. Long-term vitamin D deficiency leads to bone softening, known as rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Insufficient vitamin D can also contribute to osteoporosis, a loss in bone density that results in brittle bones that are prone to breaking. Because it is involved in so many systems in the human body, vitamin D continues […]
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Does sucralose spike blood sugar? Are low- and no-calorie sweeteners plant-based? Questions and conflicting information about sweeteners seem to be reaching new heights, so we’ve highlighted key facts and rounded up resources for your use in the IFIC Sweeteners Toolkit.
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What is protein? What are protein food sources? What is the recommended protein amount? In the IFIC Protein Toolkit, you’ll find insights, continuing education, resources and more to support your protein exploration and communication.
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(Washington, D.C.) — Major changes in Americans’ food attitudes and behaviors are emerging in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the 2022 Food & Health Survey conducted by the International Food Information Council (IFIC). The 17th annual survey of U.S. consumers has revealed a substantial impact of stress on the way we eat, significant increases in the adoption of specific diets and eating patterns, concerns over food and beverage prices, and the food priorities and buying power of Gen Z. “Even more so than in past years, the 2022 Food & Health Survey is showing sharp changes, over a relatively short period, in many of our beliefs and behaviors when it comes to the foods we purchase and consume,” said IFIC CEO Joseph Clayton. “Some of these changes are clearly attributable to the lasting scars of the pandemic, while others bear all the hallmarks of significant generational shifts,” he added. The 2022 Survey involved 1,005 adults ages 18–80, and for the first time it also included an oversample of adult Gen Z consumers, ages 18-24. The Emerging Influence of Gen Z Gen Z might be the youngest cohort of adults, but they are beginning to flex their consumer muscle in ways that previously haven’t been seen, driving attitude changes on sustainability and the environment across the broader population. Nearly three-quarters (73%) of Gen Z believe that their generation is more concerned about the environmental impact of food choices than other generations, followed closely by Millennials (71%), with whom they share many perspectives and common purchasing behaviors. Compared with Baby Boomers, Gen Z is more likely to purchase products labeled as “Small carbon footprint/carbon neutral” and “Plant-based.” And yet, some of Gen Z’s viewpoints may come as a surprise: compared with Millennials, they are less likely to believe that […]
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Welcome to the fourth installment of Food Insight’s Build Your Own Series! We are excited to share simple but tasty ways to spice up the healthiness of your favorite foods. Next up is the breakfast sandwich — an option that’s a perfect start to your day (or anytime really!). If you’re new to breakfast sandwiches or just want to find more ways to enjoy one, keep reading. First things first: choose a grain. Grains contain B vitamins, which play an important role in your body’s metabolism and nervous system. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend making half your grains whole, so reach for whole grain options like a whole wheat english muffin, whole grain bread or wrap your masterpiece in a tortilla. Next up is protein, which can help you feel full longer, build muscle and support your immune system. Eggs and cheese are classic breakfast sandwich staples, but if you’re in the mood to add meat or meat alternatives, try turkey, chicken or soy protein sources. Let’s turn to vegetables. Vegetables can be an important source of under-consumed nutrients like folate, fiber, magnesium and vitamin A. While tomato and onion may come to mind first, you can certainly think outside the box for something like spinach! Whatever your preference, pile on the veggies for an extra nutrient boost. Now it’s time to add a little extra to your sandwich. Options like avocado, black pepper or crushed red pepper can add great flavor without adding extra salt. Still not satisfied? Spice things up with low or no-sodium spreads, (hot) sauces or seasonings. It’s time to finish your meal! Fruit is always a refreshing choice. Plus, they can provide essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, which is important for your immune system and the absorption of iron. Try oranges, raspberries […]
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