According to a survey of 2,000 adults, many Brits confess to letting their health slip during the summer, with diet, drink, and stress being the main culprits.
The study found that a quarter of respondents consume more alcohol, while 28 percent have different sleeping patterns during the warmer months.
Additionally, 20 percent skip breakfast, and 19 percent do not exercise as much as they typically would. Another 20 percent forget to take their daily vitamins, supplements, or fortified products.
Despite these habits, 23 percent express a desire to return to a healthy routine, as 38 percent believe their overall health improves when doing so.
While 69 percent claim to have weak immunity, 22 percent are eager to boost it but are unsure how to do so.
Tom Hickton at Actimel, which commissioned the research to launch its Immunity Report, commented: “Our research shows that people across the UK want to give their immune systems some support as the seasons change but aren’t sure how to do so. Diet is a great place to start – we have seen that the nation isn’t getting their daily intake of vitamins D (30 percent) and B6 (35 percent) needed for immune support.”
The study also reveals that Brits are determined to get their healthy lifestyles back on track, with a quarter planning to eat healthier (26 percent), exercise more (25 percent), and consume products designed to improve immunity (21 percent).
However, breaking bad habits may prove challenging, as 39 percent admit to regularly snacking at night, and 43 percent indulge in sweet treats multiple times a week.
Furthermore, 19 percent consume processed meals up to six times a week, with those in the North East and Yorkshire exceeding the average weekly amount.
Although 77 percent of respondents follow the NHS-recommended healthy balanced diet, adults in Swansea are the least likely to do so.
In terms of alcohol consumption, Londoners and those in the South West have a higher-than-average weekly intake, while the North West and Midlands consume the least.
The study also indicates regional differences in exercise and sleep patterns, with London and Scotland spending more time exercising per week, while East Anglia and the Southwest engage in less physical activity. The South West residents get the most sleep, while those in the West Midlands get the least.
Immunologist Dr. Jenna Macciochi PHD remarked, “The research shows how despite most people being aware that the change in seasons can have a negative impact on health, they are confused as to where to start and find it hard to implement lifestyle-based health changes. There is also an education gap when it comes to the most effective ways we can help support a well-functioning immune system, as there appeared to be a lack of awareness around ensuring enough daily vitamin D and consuming fortified products, which can be a real help as we move into winter. It’s good to remember we can all take small steps to support immunity through exercise, good sleep, and diet, and small changes can make a big difference.”
Sam Allcock is the CEO of PR FIRE – PR & Content Marketing Platform
Talks about #pr, #blogs, #marketing, #socialmedia, and #pressrelease
Writes for The Dial in his own time.
