Awareness and compliance with the australian dietary guidelines: A descriptive study of Melbourne residents

Abstract

A detailed questionnaire, designed to assess awareness, understanding and compliance with the Australian dietary guidelines was administered by mail to a random sample of Melbourne residents in June 1984. Seven hundred and thirty people responded, representing a response rate of 76%. Only one in ten respondents could name the three major causes of death of Australians in correct order; most considered excessive stress to be the major cause of vascular disease. Over-consumption of starch-carbohydrates, fat and salt, and lack of vitamins and minerals in the diet were seen as major nutritional problems. Lack of need to change and taste preferences were seen as principal barriers to dietary change. Ninety six percent of respondents had not heard of the term “Australian dietary guidelines”, although up to one third, mainly women and the tertiary educated, were currently attempting dietary activities recommended by the guidelines. It is concluded that, to date, the Australian dietary guidelines appear to have had a lesser effect on the population than traditional beliefs. Recommendations for nutrition education are indicated.