Why did people seem thinner in the 1970s? Simpler diets, more active lifestyles, less screen time, and less stress: the lifestyle of the time largely explains this difference. Some habits from the past could even inspire us today.
We often look at old photos from the 70s with a certain surprise: the figures seem slimmer, more natural, as if everyone was in good shape without following any particular diet. So naturally, one question often arises: why were people thinner back then? Was it the food, the lifestyle, or simply an impression? In reality, several habits of the time explain this difference, and some could even inspire us today.
A simpler and more natural diet
There were also far fewer processed foods, industrial cookies, sodas, and snacks. People ate at the table, at set times, and snacking was much less frequent. As a result, without necessarily paying attention, people had a more balanced and natural diet.
Another important difference: portions were generally smaller than today, especially in restaurants.
We were moving around a lot more without realizing it.
Today, we talk a lot about sport, fitness, and training sessions. But in the 70s, people did less sport… and yet they moved more.
People walked more to do their shopping, go to school or work. Children played outside for hours. Adults gardened, did DIY projects, cycled, danced or went for walks. Movement was part of everyday life, without being planned.
Today, we can spend an entire day sitting: car, office, sofa, telephone… This sedentary lifestyle changes a lot of things.
Leave a Comment