Survey Shows Quarter Of Irish Are Obese

The latest figures from a Government study shows two out of three Irish adults are overweight, with almost one quarter being classed as obese.

The study, 'Dietary Habits of the Irish Population', was conducted as part of research by the Department of Health and found we eat too many foods that are high in fat, sugar and salt.

The report found that some 42% of males and 27% of females were in the overweight category rising 2% since the previous study in the 1998.

In addition 14% of males and 12% of females were in the obese category compared with 11% of males and 9% a decade ago.

A major concern in the Irish diet is the over-consumption of foods from the most at risk food groups, such as oils, butter, cakes and biscuits.

These are meant to be eaten sparingly, less than three servings a day. The survey found, however, that we are eating 7.3 servings of these foods, which are high in fats and sugar and lead quickly to the onset of body fat.

Another measure used in the survey is called central obesity - it is based on how large a persons' waist is.

Using this measurement the report found that 47% of men, and 70% of women were defined as centrally obese, which can lead to a higher risk of diabetes or heart disease.

(DW)