These women had the lowest level of concern about their own nutrition and about avoiding salt. They were most similar to the Constrained Eaters with Health Concerns about susceptibility to gaining weight, the degree to which they believed they were overweight, and the extent to which they'd experienced social pressure to lose weight. This study has several implications for Extension home economists. Often we assume that correct information will provide a solution to the problem. Few overweight women are ignorant of the consequences of eating foods with lots of sugar, but many continue to do so.
Information can be useful in creating an awareness or concern for nutrition.
However, a concern for nutrition doesn't always result in healthful eating habits. Therefore, Extension home economists need to go beyond teaching the four food groups and issuing a plea for good nutrition. About half the women in the study were classified into the two categories of unconstrained eaters. Yet, they searched little for nutrition information, didn't make much effort to follow recommended eating practices, and ate whatever they wanted. These two groups of women did have weight problems.