Are carrots still in the clear? Is red wine good or bad? A recent YouGov poll reveals what Americans really think about the health impact of common foods and drinks. From widely trusted staples like spinach and fish to the more divisive players like salt, coffee, and red meat, public opinion is anything but unanimous. Here’s what people are saying—one bite or sip at a time.
Americans Agree on These Health Heroes
There’s strong consensus that some foods are flat-out good for you. Spinach, carrots, and bananas top the list with over 80% of Americans calling them beneficial. Fish also earns solid praise at 79%, followed by olive oil, dark chocolate, herbal tea, and milk.
Sugar and Diet Soda Get a Big Thumbs Down
When it comes to the bad guys, sugar and diet soda take the hit. Sixty-one percent of Americans believe diet soda harms your health. Sugar follows closely, with 59% saying it’s detrimental—even in moderation.
Salt Sparks the Most Debate
Salt is one of the most controversial items in the lineup. Only 23% think it’s good for you, while 44% say it’s harmful. A sizable chunk—19%—think it doesn’t really make a difference either way.
Red Meat Divides the Dinner Table
Red meat doesn’t have a clear-cut image. About 37% believe it’s beneficial, 27% think it’s harmful, and 18% say it’s neutral. No majority opinion means it’s still a hot topic on health menus.
Coffee Fans Say It’s Mostly Fine
Black coffee has its supporters, with 36% saying it’s good for your health. Just 14% call it harmful, while a whopping 29% say it has no effect. For most Americans, your morning cup seems safe—at least in moderation.
Red Wine Is the Classiest Controversy
Red wine lands in the middle of the road. Forty-six percent say it’s beneficial, but 14% say it’s harmful. Another 20% think it makes no real difference, proving not everyone’s sold on the “a glass a day” theory.
Personal Views Match the National Mood
Interestingly, when asked how these foods affect them personally, Americans gave nearly identical responses. Whether it’s sugar, spinach, or red wine, general beliefs often align with individual choices. It seems health instincts and headlines go hand-in-hand.
