Top health and wellbeing goals for 2024 - like improving general fitness

24 January 2024 , 09:41

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Brits have shared their top health and wellbeing goals for 2024, with half (51%) wanting to improve their fitness in general – while 23% simply want to be more mindful.

Almost a third (31%) have resolved to eat a more balanced or varied diet, while drinking less caffeine is a goal for 14%.

And the research of 2,000 adults found that other things they hope to achieve in the coming months include getting more sleep, drinking more water, and getting regular health check-ups.

In fact, 59% are keen to improve their overall wellbeing in 2024 – but as many as one in 10 anticipate they will fail to stick to their goals. And of those who don't have much faith in themselves, more than half (57%) reckon they will give up before the end of this month.

The research, commissioned by Activia, found that some of the top reasons for this include falling back into old habits (55%), and simply getting bored (36%).

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Meanwhile, 38% will lose patience if they don't notice an immediate improvement, while 26% will set unrealistic goals, that don't fit into their daily routines.

Two-thirds of Brits want to take better care of their gut health in 2024 (PinPep)

However, some of the main reasons for setting wellbeing goals in the first place are to increase energy levels (29%), and improve sleep quality (26%). Boosting their mood and outlook on life (25%), and reducing stress levels (24%), were also cited.

And as part of turning over a new leaf, 65% recognise they need to take better care of their gut health in 2024 – but only 12% are totally confident they know how to do so. It also emerged 34% 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.”

But one in 10 reckon they will fail the health and wellbeing goals they set for themselves this year (PinPep)

The study also found that 76% believe they have a varied and balanced diet – but eating the same thing on repeat is a common occurrence for 36%.

And four in 10 (39%) eat less than three portions of fruit and vegetables a day – with 53% 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%), and reduce their meat intake (19%). And 12% will even look to incorporate fermented foods, like yoghurt or sauerkraut, into their meals.

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The study, conducted via OnePoll.com, also found 26% don’t have a good sleeping pattern – which emerged as a wellbeing goal that 38% 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.”

BRITS' TOP WELLBEING GOALS FOR 2024: