Times of India
10 February 2011
By Sruthy Susan Ullas

Chilled–Out Young Crowd Pays Little Attention To Good Diet And Exercise
Gen Ahead
Those packets of fried potato chips and chilled coke or sleepless nights watching movies – all of them are taking a toll on your health. GenY knows it, but appears barely interested. At least, not at this age when one is meant to be carefree, is their attitude.

Students of Mount Carmel College conducted a survey on the lifestyle of youngsters in the city, and found two groups – one who is either extremely conscious of their health and habits, and the rest, who are totally unaware of the unhealthy routine they follow. The survey was conducted among 300 people in the age group of 18 to 30, mostly students.

"A majority of the people have seemingly unhealthy eating patterns – be it under–consumption of fruits and vegetables or over–consumption of fried food. A greater part of our respondents do not devote more than two hours a week towards exercise," says the survey.

Needless to say, eating out is a popular habit among youngsters. According to the survey, almost 75% of those surveyed eat out daily or weekly. A majority takes one serving of dairy products and fruits every day.

Fried food remains the most popular snack, followed by hot beverages and biscuits. Fruits and vegetables do not even feature on the list of the majority. However, most of them make it a point to have three meals a day.

While 73 people said they do not exercise at all, 107 said they exercise less than two hours a week. Jogging and walking seems to be the favourite forms of exercises among the youth. Interestingly, an equally large group works out at gyms to keep itself fit. There is also a small group which does yoga.

And yes, Gen Y is quite chilled out. Only 33 of those surveyed claimed they are highly stressed, while 223 say they get enough time to relax. They spend 8–10 hours on their daily activities.