If you are under the assumption that the youth are leading the way when it comes to health and wellbeing, then guess again. Priceline Pharmacy’s 2015 National Women’s Health Report recently found young women in Australia are letting the country down when it comes to nutrition.
The report found 72 per cent of Australian women aged 16 to 24 have the highest recorded levels of poor nutrition, with 65 per cent of the same age revealing they undertake insufficient levels of exercise.
Women aged 65 and older were recorded as having the best levels of nutrition, with only 42 per cent confirmed as having poor nutritional habits and 58 per cent insufficient levels of exercise.
The study highlighted the strong link between physical and mental health. Individuals who recorded poor mental health were 4.6 times more likely to skip meals, 1.3 times more likely to have a low fruit and vegetable consumption, and 11 times more likely to consume fried foods regularly.
Priceline Pharmacy dietitian Melanie McGrice says the findings are disappointing: “I’m always shocked to see the high numbers of Australian women with poor nutrition, especially given the great food and amount of information readily available!
“I find that busy lives, not prioritising our own health and a lack of cooking skills can all play a significant role in poor eating habits, especially when it comes to getting enough fruit and veg. Good nutrition is vital for keeping us healthy, inside and out. Unfortunately, a poor diet can also have a significant impact our energy levels, immunity and mental health.”
