With the turn of the year comes the New Year’s resolutions, which in Austria often revolve around losing weight and a healthy body. This is also apparent from the representative fasting survey of the Kurhaus Marienkron: More than half of Austrians already want to fast in the coming year. The top 3 health resolutions are: getting enough sleep, eating healthy and spending more time in nature.
The number of fasting followers is increasing: in 2020 and 2021, 41 percent of those surveyed planned a fasting cure, in 2022 this was 46 percent. Before 2023, more than half of the respondents (53.1 percent) indicate that they want to take the time to consciously do without. It is striking that especially the group of 18 to 39 year olds like to fast. Last year, 34.9 percent of Austrians actually carried out their plan, even though the average fasting time was reduced by about three days.
The need for relaxation increases
According to the study, the intentions for 2023 clearly show that there is a great need for relaxation. The 18 to 29-year-olds in particular seem to have a particularly great need for sleep or relaxation at 58.6 percent. But according to the research, healthier, more conscious nutrition, more time in nature and more exercise should also find their way into the daily lives of the respondents. While nearly one-fifth of women planned to do yoga and meditation, only seven percent of men planned to do so. One in ten, on the other hand, has no specific health or nutritional intention at all.
About half of all respondents were aware that fasting mainly promotes weight loss and cleansing of the body. Less known, however, was that it has a positive effect on the intestinal flora or gut microbiome, prevents aging and also has a positive effect on depression.
Austrians want to eat less meat
For the first time, the survey also asked about the eating habits of the participants. “Mixed diets low in meat” (54.3 percent) and “mixed diets high in meat” (37.4 percent) were found to be the predominant local diets. Meat consumption was highest among 30 to 59 year olds, while eight percent reported being purely vegetarian or vegan. More than half of the respondents cook themselves.
Four out of ten Austrians indicate that they consume little or no alcohol. A third of the participants attach importance to regional and seasonal ingredients, just as many are careful not to consume too much sugar. A quarter prefers to eat organic and two in ten respondents think a low-fat or calorie-conscious diet is important.
2023 all about saving
Despite all the good intentions, the coming year will be one of savings given the huge price increases. More than half notice effects on their own eating and health behaviour. Almost 29 percent do without more expensive healthy food, about 20 percent are reluctant to buy organic food.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
