January 20, 2005 Recent News
Obesity warnings finally carrying weight
Metabolic syndrome: High fiber equals lower risks
Health Club Industry Sees a Growing Market
What lies ahead in 2005: market preview
Dieting Pattern
According to a recent Calorie Control Council survey, 33 percent of Americans or 71 million people are currently on a diet, the highest number of dieters in the past 15 years. But with approximately 65 percent of the U.S. overweight, what will the future hold for those trying to shed added pounds in 2005? Although challenges exist for consumers when it comes to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, based on the opinions of experts, making simple changes such as reducing calorie density, counting calories, watching portion control, counting steps, etc., can all be helpful in weight management. The 2004 survey findings are based on a nationally projectable sample of 1,200 Americans age 18 and older.
(Excerpted from News Makers 12/21/2004)
Benefits of 'Good' Carb Diet
A diet favoring "good" over "bad" carbohydrates is better for the heart and less likely to slow down metabolism than a conventional low-fat diet. The "glycemic index" diet recommends carbohydrates that do not cause a sharp rise in blood sugar levels after meals, such as old-fashioned oatmeal rather than highly processed sugared breakfast cereal. It is not as anti-carb as Atkins-style regimens, nor as fat restrictive as standard low-fat diets.
(Excerpted from Health & Medicine Week/Obesity & Diabetes Week - 12/13/2004)
Obesity warnings finally carrying weight
America may finally be waking up to its weight problem. And with the New Year thousands of Americans may be thinking seriously about weight loss. A national attitude similar to the one that existed when Americans woke up to the fact that tobacco use wasn't good for them. There is more noise than there's ever been. Whether Americans heed the noise over the long term remains to be seen, but the trend is especially noteworthy around the New Year, a time for weight-loss resolutions.
(Excerpted from The Wichita Eagle - 12/27/04)
Metabolic syndrome: High fiber equals lower risks
People who eat at least three or more servings of whole-grain foods each day may lessen their chances of developing metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a condition marked by a combination of abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, poor blood sugar control, low HDL "good" cholesterol and high blood fats. These health conditions increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
(Excerpted from Health & Medicine Week - 12/20/04)
Health Club Industry Sees a Growing Market
The childhood obesity epidemic combined with cuts to schools' physical education budgets has inspired commercial gyms and health clubs to launch programs aimed at those under 18. The idea appeals to kids, and to parents looking to help their children develop a healthy lifestyle or improve their chances of winning an athletic scholarship or a spot on a sports team. The programs are a growing source of revenue for the health club business. The number of gym members under the age of 18 rose 29 percent to 4.5 million in the five years ended in 2003.
(Excerpted from The Associated Press - 12/29/04)
Functional Foods Update
Low-carb bakery items continue to be in demand, as low-carb diets continue to be a successful way to combat obesity. Weight loss and better blood sugar control are two benefits of such diets. "Net carbs" is a term used to evaluate low-carb foods, and is defined as total carbs minus dietary fiber. The FDA continues to work to define terms such as "net carb," "available carb," and "net effective carb" and contends that carbohydrate claims should be challenged if they confuse the consumer. The challenge for low-carb bakeries is how to reduce carbs and keep desired texture and flavor, similar to the past challenge in providing low-fat items. The USDA Food Guide Pyramid appears to be another confusing factor, but the new one will increase awareness of benefits of a balanced diet. Flavor science and creativity are bringing the goal of better taste and better nutrition within reach.
(Excerpted from Cereal Foods World 11/1/2004)
What lies ahead in 2005: market preview
The following seven trends will be key in 2005: (1) personalized nutrition; (2) healthy foods; (3) continued growth of bars and beverages; (4) daily dose innovation, notably in probiotics; (5) possible strong interest in the glycemic index (GI); (6) more functional brands and product concepts from Asia; and (7) a continuing trend to supplementation of foods, though that is occurring more slowly than previously expected. Health issues include diabetes, heart health, gut health and weight. Nutrient profiles are becoming "the central tenet" of future business strategies for several major food companies.
(Excerpted from Functional foods & Nutraceuticals 1/1/2005)
