The study of 2,000 adults found that 31% are actively trying to lose weight – but for others, the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle is a constant battle.
A survey of 2,000 adults has discovered that as many as 31% are actively trying to lose weight. However, for 24%, crash diets ‘never work’ as they quickly revert to their old eating habits.
The study also found that 35% of Brits consider themselves ‘yo-yo dieters’, gaining weight as soon as they lose it, with 37% confessing that yo-yo dieting has had a negative effect on their health.
The poll revealed that nearly half (47%) of respondents struggle to maintain a healthy diet consistently, while 40% lack confidence in their ability to sustain a healthy weight without resorting to drastic measures.
A representative from Medicspot, the weight loss service that commissioned the research, commented: “Finding a diet that is right for you and sticking to it is not always easy.”
“Yo-yo dieting often results from various failed diet attempts, and this pattern can have several negative impacts on both physical and mental health.”
” Common triggers include restrictive dieting, unrealistic weight loss goals, failure to make sustainable lifestyle changes, and psychological factors.”
The study also discovered that it takes 21% of adults between one and three months to reach their weight goal, yet 24% are still striving to achieve this.
Furthermore, 42% find it challenging to adhere to a diet long-term, with unhealthy food cravings being the primary culprit (68%). Motivation is a problem for 55%, while 44% succumb to stress or emotional eating.
The survey also found that 34% are unhappy with their current diet and food regime, with over half end up frustrated with their eating habits, and 55% experience feelings of guilt, believe it’s crucial for them to lose weight.
The OnePoll study also revealed that 22% describe their emotional relationship with food as unhealthy.
In preparation for maintaining a healthy diet a quarter often resort to meal planning, with an equal number relying on meal prep.
Yet, only 18% have sought advice from healthcare professionals on dieting and weight loss, and among those who did, 68% reported finding the advice beneficial.
For many attempting weight loss, the main drive is to boost overall health, though looks, mental health, and societal pressures are also significant motivators.
The spokesperson for Medicspot on weight loss commented: “Yo-yo dieting can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. However, there are ways to avoid the cycle of yo-yo dieting and promote long-term health and well-being.”
“These can include adopting a sustainable and balanced approach to weight management, setting realistic goals, incorporating regular physical activity, practising mindful eating, and seeking support.”
