THE typical person goes three weeks without eating a single green vegetable — and a month without fruit, a survey has revealed.
More than half also admit the only pulses they eat are tinned baked beans — so it is little surprise 50 per cent of adults suffer from digestive issues.
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NHS guidance states we should aim to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day to stay healthy.
It comes as one in 20 people suffer from regular heartburn, while constipation, irritable bowels and diarrhoea are regular complaints for about 15 per cent of the nutrient-deficient.
The survey of 2,000 people shows six in ten start the week with good intentions, buying fruit, veggies and pulses — only to give up on their meal plan and order midweek takeaways.
As many as two thirds said they did not know they should be consuming 25g to 30g of fibre a day, according to the poll by nutrition and food tracking app MyFitnessPal.
A quarter confess they do not eat nearly enough fibre, with a third admitting they avoid fermented foods — including yoghurt and tofu — despite over half knowing they are good for their gut health.
It comes despite most people knowing the biggest factors contributing to poor health are ultra-processed food, alcohol and a high sugar intake.
MyFitnessPal’s nutritional expert, Amanda Hamilton, said: “The study reveals just how little the nation knows about their gut health, even though two thirds say they start the week with good intentions.
“Good gut health is crucial for our bodies to function well — boosting energy levels and improving focus, encouraging clear skin and strong nails.
“Most importantly, a strong gut is ready to fight illnesses.”
