American Adults Say They Follow A Healthy Diet, But Do They Really?

Data from a new Harris Poll suggests that though people say they are eating healthier foods such as fruit and vegetables, and are cutting back on sodas and processed foods, it may be just wishful thinking. According to the poll, a majority of adults claims they frequently eat healthy at home compared to when dining out (79 percent), drink water at meals (74 percent), eat healthy snacks (72 percent), eat a balanced diet (72 percent), read nutritional information on food packages (68 percent), try to eat smaller portions (64 percent), and exercise regularly (57 percent). But, Harris cautions, responses to poll questions may reflect what people think they should be doing rather than what they are actually doing. Nevertheless, that’s a step in the right direction, Harris says.