A recent survey revealed that most people tend to abandon healthy habits as the Christmas holidays approach, to enjoy the days more in the company of friends and relatives.
A survey of 2,000 Americans revealed that the 24% are still carrying the weight they gained with them at the end of 2023. On average, this is almost 4 kilos. All those interviewed think they will gain another six kilos before January 2025.
The study
Hosted by Talker Research for the seventh annual year-end survey, called “Holiday Healthy Habits”, the results examined the healthy habits of Americans in 2024 and the way people are breaking away from their routines as the holidays approach.
Half of the people surveyed said they and 43% said they use the end of the year as an excuse to put off healthy habits. This also varies by generation: the 64% of Gen Z respondents admitted to using the holiday season as an excuse, compared to 43% of Gen X respondents.
Regardless of age, the results also found that the 53% stopped the diet at the end of the yearwith 36% admitting this was due to the temptation of holiday food.
Many interviewees admit that they have put their healthy habits on hold to better enjoy the Christmas holidays. 62% of respondents said the end of the year is more enjoyable if they don’t worry about healthy habits and their weight.
When asked why they are more likely to give in to temptation this year, respondents said that as they get older they are more willing to give in and simply enjoy the moment (40%) and are more grateful to be with family and friends, and therefore expect their self-control to be lower (31%).
Embracing the Christmas holidays means celebrating with your loved ones, and you can enjoy it while keeping your health at the center.
While more respondents abandon healthy habits at the end of the year, the majority plan to start 2025 off right. Two-thirds (65%) plan to adopt healthy habits in the new year, estimating that it will take just under 18 days before they get back on track with these habits (or start new ones).
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