1. The elderly enjoyed eating three meals a day but were still overweight

Three-quarters of respondents in the age group said they ate three meals a day. Sometimes even less. Even though they ate less than their smaller counterparts, the same amount (three-quarters) of respondents said they were overweight.

“No matter what I try, I can’t seem to lose weight,” said one man.

Fruits and vegetables were practically a staple in their diet. However, so was the bread and pasta. And that food was considered “impossible to live without.”

Unlike young people in Malta, older people were more likely to consume seafood. However, they were also big lovers of odd meat and chocolate here and there. Regardless, when it came time to point the finger, age was to blame.

“My age is stopping me from losing weight.”

2. Illness has inspired older people to start losing weight

Two-thirds of those over 65 who take the survey try to shed some pounds if they have the support, and the means to do so.

“The fatter you are, the more likely you are to get sick,” said one. “I love my family, and I want to enjoy their company for as long as possible.

Chronic illness that often becomes an integral part with a few extra pounds has been the biggest motivator behind seniors wanting to lose weight.

“I want to have a healthy lifestyle and not suffer from high blood pressure and diabetes.”

“I am trying to lose weight and lose weight with a new food plan. At the age of 73, it’s time to get serious. “

3. Although some older people simply enjoyed the good life

Eating well is practically synonymous with a good life. I mean, let’s face it – everyone loves food. Malta over the age of 65 was more than reluctant to say so.

“I am just overweight. But it doesn’t matter, I enjoy living well, “said one respondent. “I’m addicted to food.”

Apart from water, teas, and coffee, the elderly in Malta enjoyed a little alcohol on a daily basis, with some even saying that a meal is practically incomplete without a glass of wine.

Their love of sauce was so great that 40% of respondents said they were not discouraged even if it meant losing weight.

4. Exercise received mixed reviews

Only one-third of respondents met World Health Organization standards for weekly exercise. However, those who did not exercise did not specify which activities.

The WHO recommends a daily minimum of 30 minutes of brisk walking a day. Currently, in Malta, 72% of adults have not even come close to reaching that threshold.

What needs to change?

“Meat and vegetables are too expensive. Reduce the price of healthy food and the Maltese will do so by buying healthy food. ”

Many respondents said that the price of healthy food was the biggest factor in deciding whether or not to eat healthily. And those in Malta over 65 disagreed.

“Organic, ‘clean’ food must be made cheaper if the Maltese want to buy it and eat it. Focus on organic products and teach people how to cook properly. ”

“It would be great if the government would market a healthy life with more zeal,” one person said. “I would be more motivated if there was a bigger push on TV.”

However, others alluded to the need for a change in ‘Maltese culture’. That it is ‘fine in us’ to be wired to eat the food we eat, and to live the way we live.

What do you do with this?