Millions of people across the UK are gearing up for a final summer weight loss push with tomorrow - Thursday, June 6 - identified as the most popular day to kick-start their health journey.
Research by Lingo by Abbott reveals that a staggering 88 per cent of individuals plan to embark on a final summer diet this week. However, the study also highlights the pitfalls of fad diets, with the average person attempting a restrictive eating plan three times a year, only to see it fizzle out after 16 days.
A significant portion of participants, 25 per cent, find diets tedious and challenging to maintain, while 14 per cent express frustration with their lack of success. Experts at Lingo by Abbott caution against a one-size-fits-all approach to weight management, emphasizing that individual bodies respond differently to various foods.
Resident nutritionist Lily Soutter emphasizes the need for personalized approaches, saying: "With a third of Brits admitting that they're currently trying to improve their weight and diet, it seems that they're searching for fast answers that assume one size fits all, but this isn't the case."
Instead of resorting to quick fixes, the study advocates for a focus on long-term sustainable changes, incorporating mindful eating practices and exploring a variety of dietary options to discover what works best for each individual. "Instead, small and sustainable changes are more realistic than overnight change and when practised daily this can contribute towards overall wellbeing," she added.
Using insights from a glucose monitor can help you understand how your body responds to factors that relate to health such as the foods you eat, sleep, stress and exercise which may also be impacting your weight. Having this information can help empower you to make the changes needed to achieve your health-related goals."
The study also found that one in ten Brits feel like they're perpetually dieting, with an equal percentage confessing their confusion over nutritional needs and how to enhance their eating habits, reports Bristol Live. Ms Soutter added: "Each person has their own set of genetics, biology, and various factors that impact their weight and health. What works for one individual may not work for another, and the length of time it takes to reach certain goals varies widely from person to person. That's why I advise people to try a personalised approach to nutrition."