Palate pursuits: Almost 6 million Australians will try a new diet in 2024
Millions of Australians are focusing on their health in 2024, according to new research by Finder.
A Finder survey of 1,056 respondents revealed 27% of Australians – equivalent to 5.5 million people – will try a new diet this year.
Aussies are most eager to try intermittent fasting (15%), along with the keto (10%), pescetarian (9%) and vegetarian diets (9%).
This is followed by going vegan (8%), gluten-free (8%) or trying a low FODMAP diet (8%).
A further 7% will strip their cupboards of processed foods and attempt a paleo diet.
The research found 1 in 4 (24%) – equivalent to 4.9 million people – already follow a food regime of some kind.
Angus Kidman, money expert at Finder, said Aussies are putting their health first in 2024.
"The new year is a great opportunity to improve your diet and pursue a healthier lifestyle.
"Diet-related resolutions are popular but changing your food habits is often trickier than people anticipate.
"Extreme switches often end badly, so make sure your planned changes are realistic, and set small achievable goals to keep yourself motivated."
Kidman said adopting a healthy eating routine doesn't have to break the bank.
"As meat prices increase, limiting your meat consumption can add a few dollars back in your pocket.
"Planning your meals means you're not splurging on stuff you don't need that also don't align with your goals.
"Compare prices online for groceries to make sure you know where the best deals are."
Kidman urged Aussies to focus on building healthy habits rather than quick fixes.
"Be wary of fad diets that promise quick and easy weight loss in a short amount of time.
"At the end of the day, your diet choice needs to resonate with you.
"It's incredibly hard to stay motivated if your food goals don't align with your values," Kidman said.
| The diets Australians plan to try in 2024 | |
|---|---|
| Intermittent fasting | 15% |
| Keto diet | 10% |
| Vegetarianism | 9% |
| Pescetarianism | 9% |
| Veganism | 8% |
| Gluten-free diet | 8% |
| Low FODMAP diet | 8% |
| Paleo diet | 7% |
| Source: Finder nationally representative survey of 1,056 respondents, November 2023 |
| Do you currently follow any of the following diets? | |
|---|---|
| Intermittent fasting | 11% |
| Vegetarianism | 7% |
| Veganism | 5% |
| Gluten-free diet | 5% |
| Pescetarianism | 5% |
| Paleo diet | 4% |
| Keto diet | 4% |
| Low FODMAP diet | 4% |
| Source: Finder nationally representative survey of 1,056 respondents, November 2023 |
Here are some tips to make your diet stick.