(RxWiki News) Are you eating several servings of fruits and veggies each day and hitting the gym at least three times a week? If not, you're not alone. However, a new survey revealed most U.S. adults would prefer to improve their health.
A survey conducted by the American Heart Association found that 90 percent of U.S. adults would like to better their overall level of health.
"Eat at least nine fruit and vegetable servings daily."
Dr. Tracy Stevens, a spokeswoman for the American Heart Association, and professor of medicine and cardiologist with Saint Luke’s Cardiovascular Consultants, noted that brisk 30-minute walks, added fruits and vegetables at mealtimes, calorie and physical activity balancing and oral care all contribute to an overall healthier lifestyle.
Despite the desire, only 12 percent of U.S. adults are following healthy habits, including healthy eating, regular exercise and oral hygiene. The most common reason that individuals cited for failing to follow through on healthier habits was a lack of time.
About 25 percent of adults admitted that they did not brush twice daily and floss at least once a day. Most American adults also are having trouble following healthy practices capable of improving cardiovascular health.
About 80 percent of those surveyed confessed they had difficulty eating at least nine servings of fruits and vegetables each day, while 60 percent struggled to meet the American Heart Association's recommended exercise levels. The organization suggests that individuals engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity such as brisk walking each week.
The American Heart Association offers numerous resources to help those interested in getting in shape or improving their health, such as walking clubs and heart-healthy cooking programs.
