Proactive living: Consumers in South America are taking active steps to improve their diets and lifestyles Over the last couple of decades, lifestyles have changed considerably in South America, especially in urban areas. The middle class has grown significantly, which has resulted in traits such as changing dietary habits and greater levels of inactivity. At the other end of the spectrum, there are consumers who have not managed to take advantage of economic growth in the region, meaning that many still struggle with dayto-day living costs. Irrespective of the type of consumer, there has been increased levels of consciousness towards health in recent years. This has been accelerated over the last twelve months by the COVID-19 crisis, especially as South America has struggled to keep the virus under control. As consumers re-evaluate their health in a pandemic environment, they are recognising that diets and lifestyles are not as healthy as they should be, which increases the risk of immediate and long-term health problems. Traits such as excessive intake of processed food, increased snacking rates, and more indulgent consumption occasions, combined with less attention to micronutrients, are resulting in increased rates of lifestyle-related health problems such as obesity. In addition, the prevalence of mental wellbeing-related problems is also on the rise in the region, with consumers suffering from poor sleep health, stress, and an inability to relax for a variety of reasons. At the same time, consumers are recognising that this also has a significant impact on their health.
Do you plan to make improvements to any of the following
78% 68%
47%
66%
64%
53%
48%
42%
41%
33% 20%
9%
My general health and wellness
My cognitive/ mental health
My digestive health
Source: Personalized nutrition survey, Q3 2020 (3,000 respondents)
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My energy levels
My eye health
My heart health
