Here’s how the holidays will affect Americans’ health and how much weight they’re expected to gain

A quarter of Americans are still carrying on the weight they gained during last year’s holiday season, according to a new study.

The survey of 2,000 Americans found that 24% are still carrying pounds by the end of 2023; on average, this is almost 10 pounds.

They also expect to gain weight as we approach the end of 2024: respondents think they’ll gain an average of six extra pounds before they flip their calendars in January.

Conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Herbalife for their seventh annual year-end survey, called “Healthy Holiday Habits,” the results looked at the healthy habits of Americans in 2024 and how respondents are moving away from them as the holiday approaches. holidays.

Half of Americans surveyed said they are less healthy than usual as the end of the year approaches — and 43% said they use the end of the year as an excuse to put off healthy eating.

This also varied by generation: 64% of Gen Z respondents admitted to using this as an excuse, compared to 43% of Gen Xers surveyed.

Regardless of age, the results also revealed that 53% have broken a diet at the end of the year – with 36% admitting it was due to the temptation of holiday food.

Many respondents are putting their healthy habits on hold in order to make the most of the holiday season. Sixty-two percent of respondents said the end of the year is more enjoyable if they don’t worry about their healthy habits and weight.

Again, younger respondents were more likely to agree — 72% of Gen Zers, compared to 61% of Gen Xers.

They were also more likely to give in to temptation this year: overall, 37% of respondents were more likely to give in this year than in other years, and this increased for younger generations – 52% of Gen Z, versus only 38% of Gen X.

When asked why they’re more likely to give in to temptation this year, respondents said that as they get older, they’re more willing to give in and just enjoy the moment (40%) — and they’re more thankful to be with family and friends, therefore they expect their self-control to be lower (31%).

Current events are also weighing heavily on their minds, with worries about the economy (26%) and stress from current events (25%) including the presidential election (22%) also making Americans more likely to succumb temptation this holiday season. .

“Embracing the holiday season means celebrating with loved ones, and it’s possible to enjoy it while keeping your health in focus,” said Dr. Luigi Gratton, Vice President of Health and Wellness at Herbalife. “Enjoy those festive treats, but consider balancing them with nutritious options and staying active. It’s all about making mindful choices that allow you to enjoy the joy of the season while feeling good. With a little planning, you can celebrate and maintain your healthy habits.â€

Despite the number of respondents giving up healthy habits at the end of the year, most are planning to start 2025 off right.

Two thirds (65%) plan to have healthy habits in the new year – estimating it will take less than 18 days before they get back on track with these habits (or start new ones).

As part of this, 36% plan to make a New Year’s resolution for 2025 (compared to 47% last year).

When asked about their resolutions for 2025, the top five countries matched the list of respondents from 2024, albeit in a slightly different order.

For 2025, those with New Year’s resolutions plan to eat healthier (51%), work to save money (47%) and exercise more (46%). They are also planning to focus on self-care (40%) and increase the amount of sleep (38%).

“New Year’s resolutions can be a great way to start your journey to better health, but the real key is sticking to them beyond January,” added Gratton. Start with small, manageable goals and integrate them into your daily routine. With consistency and dedication, you can transform those resolutions into lasting, healthy habits.â€