Consumers Getting Smarter about Health, Nutrition

Posted: March 27, 2006

As the oldest of the 78 million "baby boomers" turn 60 this year, it is apparent that consumers in the United States are not getting younger; however, they are getting smarter about their health, according to a report by the North American Olive Oil Association (NAOOA).

In particular, consumers are making smarter choices about the types of food and exercise they need during different stages of life. "While people should eat nutritious foods throughout their lives to maintain and protect health, nutritional needs change as we get older,” explained Elizabeth Somer, registered dietitian and author of several nutrition books, in a press statement. “Therefore, adjusting diet based on age is important.”

Experts reportedly suggest that people of all ages should eat colorful fruits and vegetables such as blueberries and spinach, whole grains such as oats, lean protein such as chicken breast and fish, and certain healthy fats found in foods such as olive oil. These foods provide the vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients that help promote health and protect against serious diseases, including cancer and heart disease.

"Choosing these good-for-you foods, while avoiding foods that are unhealthy, has a profound effect on future good health," continued Somer in the report. "Besides, eating well is so easy. For example, olive oil, which is loaded with heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, can be used in place of other oils, butter or margarine in sauteing, cooking and baking."

According to NAOOA, research supporting the heart-health benefits of olive oil was strong enough for the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve a health claim linking the consumption of olive oil to a lowered risk of heart disease.