Slimmers breaking New Year pledges, survey says

New Year's resolutions to lose weight and eat more healthily have already fallen by the wayside, a survey has found.

Research carried out by YouGov found that more than two-fifths (41 per cent) of people it questioned had made a decision to lose weight at the start of 2012, while more than one-third (35 per cent) said they had made a pledge to eat more healthily. Unfortunately, the survey results also suggested that by the start of February, 24 per cent of these people had broken one or more of their resolutions.

According to Lucy Vickers, a nutritionist at Weight Watchers, some people end up feeling lower about themselves after failing to meet "unrealistic goals". She said having the right support is also key to getting results that last beyond the start of the year.

Sports nutrition experts this week stressed the importance of eating a healthy diet and the positive effect this can have on an exercise regime.

Nutrition expert Anita Bean told the Daily Express newspaper: "Many people think sports nutrition is something that’s just for dedicated athletes but even beginners and keen amateurs can eat and drink in a way that improves results and builds motivation."

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