Australian food facts that you didnt know
A growing iodine deficiency
Iodine deficiency means not having enough iodine in the body. Australian research has found mild iodine deficiency re-emerging, especially among children and pregnant and breastfeeding women, which puts them at risk of thyroid problems and, in pregnancy, can affect a baby’s brain development. Using iodised salt instead of plain salt and choosing bread made with iodised salt (as most Australian bread is) helps, and pregnant and breastfeeding women are usually advised to take an iodine supplement; ask your GP.
It’s important to get enough iodine, and just as important not to get too much, as excess iodine can also harm the thyroid. Seaweed, especially kelp, can contain very high amounts, so enjoy it in small portions. There’s a great seaweed wellness blend recipe in my free e-book; contact me for your copy here.
How Australian women are eating
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2017–18 data):
- Fewer than 1 in 10 Australian women eat enough fruit and vegetables.
- Around 3 in 5 Australian women are overweight or obese.
- 92% of people in the highest socioeconomic areas didn’t eat enough vegetables, compared with 94% in the lowest.
- Coronary heart disease remains the leading cause of death in Australian men.
- Dietary needs change for older Australians (over 65), who need more protein and calcium, for example.
The bigger picture
According to the AIHW’s Australia’s Food and Nutrition 2012 report:
- 25% of men and 10% of women aged 65 and over did not eat enough protein foods.
- Six in 10 adults were overweight or obese.
- Poor diet increases the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers.
- Most Australians were getting enough of most nutrients, but many were not eating a balanced diet. Foods high in fat and sugar made up 36% of adults’ energy intake and 41% of children’s, far higher than recommended.
- 9 out of 10 adults were not eating enough vegetables, and only half were eating enough fruit.
Whether people eat healthily is often driven by cost rather than nutrition, and the price of healthy food has been rising faster than the price of less healthy food.
When we know what to do, why aren’t we doing it?
Most of us know what’s right and wrong. When it comes to weight, what you eat makes a much bigger difference than exercise alone, and research consistently shows people who have support during and after a lifestyle change are far more likely to achieve lasting results.
How to get real results with corporate nutrition and well being programs
Get started with lots of easy videos on how to get organised and stay on top, with the right ingredients and know-how:
- What to choose to keep your pantry well stocked
- Corporate nutrition and wellness challenges
- Simple knife skills and the utensils you need
- Easy, modern healthy cooking methods
- Base recipes, and how to use the internet to your advantage
- How to balance your plate
Design your culinary life for corporate nutrition and wellbeing with help:
- Fun activities
- 10 fast facts cheat sheets
- 101 coaching strategies
- Back-up Q&A support from Cass
Don’t let your head get in the way of your success. The proof is in the pudding, right? Learn more here.
