A recent study conducted by the Romanian Dietetics Association with the support of Nestlé Romania has shed light on the lifestyle and eating habits of young people in Romania, specifically those belonging to Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012). The study, which involved 1205 participants aged 18-30, revealed some surprising findings. One of the most concerning discoveries was that almost a third (32.5%) of young Romanians are overweight or obese, with men being more likely to fall into this category than women.
The study also showed that most participants (60.8%) have a normal Body Mass Index (BMI), but the distribution of BMI varied significantly between sexes. While 68% of women had a normal weight, 42% of men were overweight or obese. The study identified several dietary factors that contribute to an increased BMI, including frequent consumption of carbonated drinks, cold cuts, red meat, and sweets.
In terms of physical activity, the study found that only 46% of respondents met the recommended level of weekly physical activity, which is at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. A significant percentage of respondents (9.4%) reported not engaging in any physical activity, while 44.5% did not do enough physical activity.
The study also explored the dietary patterns of young Romanians, finding that the overwhelming majority (95.1%) followed an omnivorous diet, consuming foods of all types. Predominantly plant-based dietary patterns were rare, with only 1.8% reporting a pescetarian diet, 1.6% vegan, 1.4% vegetarian, and 0.1% raw vegan.
The study’s findings have implications for promoting healthy lifestyles among young people in Romania. According to Dr. Laura Gavrilaș, Nutritionist and Registered Dietitian, the study provides a solid basis for developing preventive measures and interventions adapted to the current realities of Generation Z. The fact that over 85% of respondents read product labels at least occasionally suggests that young people are interested in making informed choices about their diet and lifestyle.
Overall, the study highlights the need for greater awareness and education about healthy eating habits and lifestyle choices among young people in Romania. By understanding the dietary patterns and lifestyle habits of Generation Z, policymakers and healthcare professionals can develop targeted interventions to promote healthy behaviors and reduce the risk of overweight and obesity. As Nicoleta Tupiță, Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Manager at Nestlé Romania, notes, “We will continue to explore the lifestyle and eating habits of young people to understand how Generation Z lives, works, relaxes, and sleeps, and especially what they eat, the one we now rely on so much when talking about the future of Romania.”