A recent study published in the Journal of Translational Medicine has shed light on the diverse food preferences of the UK population and their implications for health. Using anonymised data from 180,000 volunteers in the UK Biobank, researchers employed artificial intelligence to categorise participants into three distinct dietary profiles: Health-conscious, Omnivore, and Sweet Tooth.
Dietary Profiles and Health Risks
- Health-Conscious: This group tends to favour fruits and vegetables over animal-based and sweet foods. Participants in this category exhibited higher dietary fibre intake, which is linked to numerous health benefits. They were found to have lower risks for conditions such as heart failure, chronic kidney diseases, and strokes. This aligns with existing literature suggesting that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can significantly enhance overall health.
- Omnivore: The omnivore group enjoys a balanced diet that includes a wide range of foods, such as meats, fish, vegetables, sweets, and desserts. Their health risks were found to be moderate, indicating that while they consume a variety of foods, their intake may not be optimally balanced.
- Sweet Tooth: Participants in this group prefer sweet foods and sugary drinks and show less interest in healthier options like fruits and vegetables. Notably, individuals in the sweet tooth group had higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker for inflammation, along with elevated glucose levels and poor lipid profiles. These indicators serve as strong warning signs for type 2 diabetes and heart disease, as highlighted by Professor Geifman, the study’s lead author.
The study also found that those in the sweet tooth group are 31% more likely to experience depression and have higher rates of type 2 diabetes and vascular heart conditions compared to the other two groups. The research underscores that food preferences are directly linked to health outcomes, suggesting that those who favour cakes, sweets, and sugary drinks may face negative health implications.
Insights from Blood Biochemistry
To further understand the biological implications of these dietary preferences, the Surrey research team examined UK Biobank data that included blood samples measuring 2,923 proteins and 168 metabolites. Proteins, which play critical roles in bodily functions—from immune response to muscle contraction—along with metabolites, small molecules produced during digestion, provide valuable insights into individual health status.
By analysing the levels of these proteins and metabolites, researchers were able to uncover significant biological differences between the dietary groups. Importantly, using data-driven artificial intelligence methods, the study identified groups defined by their food preferences, which are meaningfully linked to health outcomes and biological markers.
University of Surrey -YouTube Video
Sugar Consumption in the UK
According to the British Nutrition Foundation, on average, between 9% to 12.5% of an individual’s caloric intake in the UK comes from free sugars—sugars added to food or drink. The biggest contributors to free sugar intake among adults are biscuits, buns, cakes, pastries, and fruit pies, while sugary soft drinks and alcoholic beverages collectively contribute the most.
Professor Nophar Geifman emphasised the importance of processed sugar in the diets of many, stating, “These results are yet more evidence that, as a society, we should do all that we can to think before we eat. No one wants to tell people what to do; our job is just to inform people.”
Conclusion
The study provides compelling evidence of how dietary preferences shape health outcomes, with clear distinctions between the health-conscious, omnivore, and sweet tooth groups. With a significant portion of the population leaning towards sweet foods, public health initiatives may need to focus on promoting healthier dietary choices and reducing sugar intake. By fostering an awareness of nutrition and its impact on health, there is potential to encourage more individuals to transition towards a health-conscious lifestyle, ultimately improving health outcomes across the UK.
For more information and full study paper
