These findings stem from a nutritional status study, jointly published by the National Institute of Nutrition, the Nutrilite Health Institute, and Amway Vietnam at a conference on 19/6/2025.
Conducted throughout 2025, the survey included nearly 1,500 participants from Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, Thai Nguyen, and Quang Nam, encompassing both urban and rural populations. The results indicated a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity among men compared to women, based on the World Health Organization's body mass index (BMI) standards for Asians.
Associate Professor Doctor Tran Thanh Duong, Director of the National Institute of Nutrition, noted that the primary nutritional challenge has evolved from "insufficient eating" to "incorrect" and "imbalanced eating."
Beyond the issue of overweight, Vietnamese dietary habits also exhibit a significant deficiency in essential micronutrients. Daily food intake only provides 68.7% of the recommended calcium and 50.9% of folate. Additionally, more than 60% of survey respondents fail to consume adequate amounts of vegetables and fruits, falling short of World Health Organization guidelines.
The quality of the day's first meal is equally concerning, with breakfast providing only 18.2% of recommended energy intake, a level insufficient for sustaining both physical and mental activity. Alarmingly, approximately 20% of individuals consume sugar, confectionery, or other sweets for breakfast.
Consistent breakfast skipping or unhealthy eating patterns disrupt energy metabolism, trigger increased cravings later in the day, and promote compensatory eating, significantly elevating the risk of obesity and various non-communicable chronic diseases.
Associate Professor Duong highlighted that the 20-45 age group represents society's core workforce. However, work pressures and a fast-paced lifestyle are contributing to erratic eating habits and an over-reliance on processed foods within this demographic.
This scenario creates a dual nutritional burden for Vietnam: micronutrient deficiencies persist alongside a rapid rise in conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Given Vietnam's rapidly aging population, proactive health management through daily dietary choices is crucial for future labor productivity and overall quality of life.
Le Phuong
