A new study of 2,000 men reveals that Gen Z (ages 18-29) are the healthiest generation, consuming the fewest alcoholic drinks and exercising the most. However, they are nearly three times as likely to feel overwhelmed compared to older generations. Millennials (ages 30-45) rank second, drinking more water than any other age group. Gen X (ages 46-61) come third, while Boomers (ages 62-80) take the bottom spot, exercising the least and drinking the most alcohol.
Boomers Lead in Diet Despite Low Exercise
Although Boomers exercise the least, they excel in diet: they eat the most fruit and vegetables, have the fewest takeaways and ready meals, and are the least stressed generation. Only 4% of Boomers focus on mental health, compared to 23% of Gen Z and 19% of Millennials.
Generational Differences in Health Priorities
Almost all men (98%) say overall health is important, but priorities differ. Boomers are more likely to prioritise physical health (32%) than Gen Z (20%) or Millennials (13%). Younger generations focus more on mental health. Over half of Boomers and Gen X feel they are taking charge of their health more now than ever before, with 62% of Boomers taking health more seriously as they age.
Melissa Cohen, head of nutrition at Vitabiotics Wellman, which commissioned the research, 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. Not everyone will be running marathons, but working to introduce small lifestyle changes, whether that’s improving your diet, walking a few more steps or trying to manage stress can go a long way.”
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 my diet generally
- Take vitamins or supplements
- Eat fewer takeaways
- Eat more protein
- Improve my sleep pattern
