The number of Americans who take a vitamin or supplement continues to increase, according to the third annual “America’s Take on Vitamins” survey from the Vitamin Shoppe, Inc., North Bergen, NJ. The survey revealed that 64% of Americans currently take a vitamin or supplement, up from 63% in 2012 and 60% in 2011. Conducted by Wakefield Research on behalf of the Vitamin Shoppe, 1,000 U.S. adults were asked about their health habits to reveal America’s view on the topic.
 
Although the U.S’s vitamin and supplement intake is in the rise, they are still making poor health and lifestyle choices. The survey found that most Americans (82%) don’t eat three balanced meals per day. The top excuses Americans give for skimping on healthy eating are healthy cooking takes too much time (37%) and that they work too much (29%). In fact, 35% of respondents said they have gone one week or longer without eating a single fresh vegetable.
 
The survey also found that there is a lack of knowledge about maintaining good health among young Americans. According to the reports findings, one in four Americans between ages 18-34 are more likely to know the names of the Kardashian sisters than the five food groups.
 
Lastly, findings show there is a disparity among the sexes. Americans believe women are healthier eaters than men — by a long shot. An overwhelming majority of Americans (84%) believe women have healthier eating habits than men. Furthermore, 78% of Americans believe vitamins can help you perform better. Half (50%) of women believe vitamins will enhance their work performance while 43% of men turn to vitamins to help enhance their performance at the gym.
 
For the complete survey, visit: www.vitaminshoppe.com.