One in 10 adults expect to fail their health and wellbeing goals in 2024 – with more than half of those quitting before the end of January, research reveals. A study, of 2,000 adults, revealed 59 percent want to improve their wellbeing in 2024, with top goals including improving their fitness (51 percent), eating a more balanced and varied diet (31 percent), being more mindful (23 percent), and drinking less caffeine (14 percent).
However, 57 percent of goal setters don’t see themselves getting past the end of the first month of the year – with falling into old habits (55 percent) among the most common reasons.
Others reckon they will lose patience if they don’t notice an immediate improvement (38 percent), get bored (36 percent), or set unrealistic goals that don’t fit into their daily routines (26 percent).
The research, commissioned by Activia, revealed the reasons for setting wellbeing goals, including to increase energy levels (29 percent), and improve sleep quality (26 percent). Boosting their mood and outlook on life (25 percent), and reducing stress levels (24 percent), were also cited.
And as part of turning over a new leaf, 65 percent recognise they need to take better care of their gut health in 2024 – but only 12 percent are totally confident they know how to do so. It also emerged 34 percent mostly live off a beige diet consisting of pasta, bread, and rice.
A spokesman for the yoghurt brand, which has teamed up with pop sensation and gut health advocate, Rachel Stevens, and media doctor, Dr Zoe Williams, to launch “The Good Gut Guide” – featuring easy steps to support gut health – said: “The research shows that there’s a lack of variety in a proportion of the nation’s diets, which could be having a negative impact on gut health.
“Many might not know that gut health can impact so much of our overall wellbeing, but the new year always feels like the perfect time to turn over a new leaf.
“By understanding the importance of a thriving gut microbiome, individuals can make informed choices about their diet and lifestyle.
“As we embark on this new year, we remain committed to empowering people to improve their wellbeing, starting with the gut, to discover the positive impact this can have all year long.”
The study also found that 76 percent believe they have a varied and balanced diet – but eating the same thing on repeat is a common occurrence for 36 percent.
And four in 10 (39 percent) eat less than three portions of fruit and vegetables a day – with 53 percent consequently looking to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into their diet in 2024, to support their wellbeing.
Others intend to eat more foods containing healthy fats, such as nuts, seeds, and oily fish (29 percent), and reduce their meat intake (19 percent). And 12 percent will even look to incorporate fermented foods, like yoghurt or sauerkraut, into their meals.
The study, conducted via OnePoll.com, also found 26 percent don’t have a good sleeping pattern – which emerged as a wellbeing goal that 38 percent would like to improve on in 2024.
The Activia spokesman added: “As we embrace the possibilities of a fresh start, let’s remember that supporting our gut is not just a resolution, but a lifelong commitment to help in improving our wellbeing.
“The gut can play a significant role in supporting our wellbeing. Things like eating a balanced diet, keeping active, and getting into a good sleep routine, all play a crucial role in supporting our gut health. So here’s to a year of abundance, both within and around us.”