Gen Z men are drinking less alcohol and exercising more than any other generation, yet they report higher stress levels, according to new research commissioned by Vitabiotics Wellman. The survey of 2,000 men across all age groups found that those aged 18-29 take their health most seriously, consuming the fewest alcoholic drinks and exercising the most.
Gen Z Leads in Healthy Habits
The study revealed that Gen Z men also get more sleep and eat more homemade meals compared to older adults. Millennials, aged 30-45, ranked as the second healthiest generation, primarily because they stay hydrated more than any other age group. Gen X (46-61) came third, while Boomers (62-80) ranked last, exercising the least and drinking the most alcohol. However, Boomers lead in dietary habits, eating the fewest takeaways and the healthiest meals overall.
Stress Levels Higher Among Young Men
Despite their positive health choices, Gen Z and Millennials are nearly three times as likely to struggle with feeling overwhelmed compared to Boomers. Melissa Cohen, head of nutrition at Vitabiotics Wellman, said: “It has often been thought that health is something of the youth, but the results show young men appear to be more aware of their wellbeing. But older generations are following suit – just perhaps in different ways.”
Health Priorities Differ by Generation
Almost all men (98%) said their overall health is important, but Boomers are more likely to prioritize physical health (32%) than Gen Z (20%) and Millennials (13%). In contrast, younger generations focus more on mental health: 23% of Gen Z and 19% of Millennials concentrate on mental well-being, compared to only 4% of Boomers. More than half of Boomer and Gen X men feel they are looking after their health more than ever, with 62% of Boomers taking health more seriously as they age, and 53% citing a need to make more effort. Some were motivated by health scares.
Top 10 Ways Men Are Taking Charge of Their Health
- Drink more water
- Go for more walks
- Eat more fruit and vegetables
- Exercise more
- Eat less junk food
- Improve diet generally
- Take vitamins or supplements
- Eat fewer takeaways
- Eat more protein
- Improve sleep pattern
Melissa Cohen added: “Taking charge of your health is not a one size fits all. What might be right will differ from person to person – but good nutrition, plenty of water and as active a lifestyle as possible is always going to be a good starting point.”
