If you looked at a beach scene from the 1970s, you’d notice something striking—most people were slim, active, and seemed effortlessly healthy. Fast-forward to today, and that same beach looks very different. With rising obesity rates and a growing list of health issues, it’s impossible not to wonder: what happened?
A big part of the answer lies in the way our diets—and the food industry—have evolved over the past few decades.
Life in the 1970s: Real Food, Real Activity
In the ’70s, families cooked more meals at home. Ingredients were fresher, simpler, and far less processed. Eating out wasn’t an everyday habit; it was more of a treat. Fast food existed, sure, but it wasn’t as widespread or deeply ingrained in daily life.
People were also more physically active by default. Without smartphones, streaming services, or video games to dominate leisure time, kids played outside and adults walked, biked, and stayed on the move. Life naturally included more motion.
The Processed Food Boom
As the decades rolled on, convenience became king. The food industry exploded with ultra-processed products loaded with preservatives, artificial flavors, and unhealthy fats. Fast food chains grew into cultural giants, and suddenly, grabbing a quick meal or snack became the norm—not the exception.
High-fructose corn syrup, trans fats, and salt-laden snacks filled grocery store shelves. Clever advertising, especially targeting kids and time-crunched parents, made it nearly impossible to resist. It wasn’t just the food that changed—it was the entire relationship people had with eating.
The Health Fallout
The results? A public health crisis that’s still growing. Obesity rates have soared, and along with them, chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. According to the World Health Organization, global obesity has nearly tripled since 1975. Among children and teens, the numbers are even more staggering.
And it’s not just about what we’re eating—it’s how we think about food. Portions today are much larger than they were in the past. Many people have lost touch with what a “normal” serving looks like. Add to that a decline in home cooking skills, and it’s clear how we ended up in this situation.
What Can We Do About It?
Turning this trend around won’t be easy, but it’s possible. On a societal level, education campaigns, better food labeling, and stricter regulations on how unhealthy foods are marketed—especially to children—can make a real difference. Schools can help by teaching nutrition and serving healthier meals.
Individually, we can take small but powerful steps. Cooking more at home using fresh ingredients, being mindful of portion sizes, and making time for regular physical activity are all ways to reclaim our health. In many ways, going “back to basics”—as people lived in the 1970s—could be our best move forward.
Dedicated and experienced pet-related content writer with a passion for animals and a proven track record of creating engaging and informative content. Skilled in researching, writing, and editing articles that educate and inspire pet owners. Strong knowledge of animal behavior, health, and care, combined with a commitment to delivering high-quality content that resonates with audiences. Seeking to leverage writing skills and passion for pets to contribute to a dynamic and mission-driven team.