Most Americans have cut spending on almost everything but here in the last six months

EIGHT in 10 people have cut their general spending in the past six months (81%), according to a new study.

A survey of 2,000 US adults found that three out of four had been affected by inflation, with those saying they reduced spending the most on shopping (70%), entertainment (59%) and groceries (58%).

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However, 70% do not let their health falter, with people sharing that the top area where they would not cut spending is in their health and well-being (44%).

Fifty-five percent said they spend tons of money on their health, spending an average of one-third of their budget on it, including spending on healthy eating, supplements, and mental health care.

Most respondents emphasize that it is important to prioritize time and money for health over other areas of life (69%) and do so by cooking at home more (61%), staying at home more in general ( 59%) and behaving well spending habits (50%).

Commissioned by medifast and conducted by OnePoll, the poll found that 60% of respondents said the pandemic has encouraged them to re-prioritize their lives, and a similar percentage said the experience has also made them value their health more than before (63%).

People have been inspired to take care of themselves and are now walking an average of about 200 more steps a day than before the pandemic.

And respondents plan to maintain these habits through 2023 by focusing less on entertainment (39%) and travel (37%). Next year, Americans will put themselves first and spend more time on their health (57%) and hobbies (34%).

Likewise, in 2023, half of those surveyed will spend more of their budget on their health and well-being (49%) and even more on eating out (46%) and cutting back on their social life (40%).

Respondents also invest more money in their education (27%) and hobbies that make them happy (26%).

As 2022 draws to a close, respondents want to continue making big changes in their daily lives in 2023.

Over half (57%) say one of their top goals is to get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep each night, with 51% saying they would like to be outside more.

Another 51% say they plan to incorporate more walking into their daily lives and include more nutritious foods in their diet.

“A unique approach to health and wellness, like working with a dedicated coach and community, and focusing on practicing healthy habits, can help those who are looking for a different way to reach their goals,” said Dan Chard, Chairman and CEO of Medifast.

But it’s not just about physical health — many respondents plan to take better care of themselves mentally, too.

Americans know that health isn’t just about food and nutrition, because sleep (72%), exercise (68%) and mental health (65%) also contribute to their overall health. In fact, most find that their sleep also has a significant impact on their daily life, from work to caring for their family (63%).

“As we move towards the holiday season, it’s common for people to use this time as an opportunity to set lofty health and wellness goals. However, we know that big, bold New Year’s resolutions are rarely sustained.

“Instead, try to incorporate small, healthy habits that can be gradually added to your daily life and ultimately help lay a foundation for lasting success,” said Satya Jonnalagadda, Ph.D., MBA, RDN, Vice President of Scientific and Clinical Affairs at Medifast.

This randomized, double opt-in online survey was conducted between October 20-24, 2022 among 2,000 nationally representative U.S. adults.