Brits admit they let health slip over summer – with more alcohol and less sleep
Brits are keen to make some healthy lifestyle changes heading into the winter months – after drinking more alcohol and sleeping less over the summer.
A poll of 2,000 adults found that they let their health slide during the warmer months, with 28% falling into different sleeping patterns, and a quarter drinking more alcohol.
One in five (19%) did not exercise as much as they usually would, while the same number were guilty of skipping breakfast, and then forgetting to take their daily vitamins, supplements, or fortified products.
And 69% believe they have weak immunity, with 22% keen to boost this – but not knowing where to start.
But well-intentioned Brits plan to eat more healthily (26%), exercise more (25%), and eat or drink products intended to improve immunity (21%) – as 38% think their overall health improves when doing so.
Tom Hickton, at Actimel, which commissioned the research to launch its Immunity Report, said: “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%) and B6 (35%), needed for immune support.”
But breaking bad habits could prove to be difficult, as 39% admit to regularly snacking at night – and 43% indulge in sweet treats multiple times a week.
Further to this, one in five (19%) have processed meals up to six times a week – with those living in the North East tucking into 4.4 of these meals a week, and Yorkshire residents consuming 4.5 – way above the average weekly amount (3.9).
However, 77% do follow the NHS recommended healthy balanced diet – with those living in Brighton and Hove, Cambridge, and Liverpool most likely to do so, and adults in Swansea least likely.
When quizzed on alcohol consumption, 40% of Londoners – who already live among high levels of pollution – have a higher weekly intake compared to the average adult (9 units), along with those in the South West (10 units).
In comparison, the North West (7.4) and Midlands (8.1) are the regions which drink the least.
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Those in the capital are also predicted to have lower levels of immunity than those in the West Midlands – but higher than those in the North West.
Compared to the daily average (three hours), London and Scotland spend more time exercising per week – whereas those in East Anglia and the South West keep active much less.
The study also found 57% manage to achieve more than seven hours sleep, which, according to the Actimel Immunity Report, is the target amount – but the remaining 43% reported they under-sleep.
When it comes to regional splits, those in the South West get the most shut-eye, and people in the West Midlands manage the least, according to the OnePoll figures.
Immunologist Dr Jenna Macciochi PHD added: “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.”
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