Why so many Americans are anxious about returning to their pre-pandemic routines
Over half of Americans are feeling anxious about resuming their pre-pandemic routines.
That’s according to a new study of 2,000 Americans, which found 46% worry about risking their health or the health of a loved one, while four in 10 are unsure of how comfortable they’ll feel in public.
In the past year, 46% have struggled to find a work-life balance, with more than half (52%) of employed Americans working longer hours. And four in 10 have been sitting more than six hours a day.
With 45% finding it challenging to find time for self-care, it’s no surprise people admit their physical health (53%) and mental health (48%) have declined.
Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Benefiber, the survey examined people’s attitudes about rebalancing wellness routines during the next readjustment period, while taking a closer look at the potential impact of these changes on overall wellness and gut health.
Although two in three Americans (67%) believe they have been able to eat healthier within the past year, 35% worry they’ll make unhealthy choices while eating out when resuming their pre-pandemic routines.
And three in 10 are concerned they’ll exercise less once they go back to work or start leaving their home more.
Some respondents are feeling positive about the future, with 37% expecting to travel more over the next six months and nearly half (47%) are excited to see family and friends.
But even with some Americans feeling optimistic, the past year has had unintended side effects: 52% of respondents experienced an increase in digestive problems.
And eight in 10 revealed that added stress has caused these issues to worsen.
While seven in 10 (71%) believe a balanced and healthy gut can help maintain general health and well-being, nearly half (49%) are not proactive in managing their digestive health.
Additionally, 57% don’t believe — or are unsure if — they consume the recommended amount of fiber per day.
But in good news, two-thirds said they’ve begun using health supplements.
When asked which supplements they used in overall wellness routines, data revealed that fewer than two in 10 respondents have incorporated prebiotic fiber into their wellness routines — even though six in 10 believe adding a prebiotic can help contribute to overall gut health.
Additionally, one in five admitted to not understanding the benefits resulting from incorporating a prebiotic fiber into their diet.
In fact, nearly 60% reported they are more familiar with probiotics than prebiotics, with a third of Americans believing prebiotics are the same as probiotics.
“As people readjust to their normal routines, it can take some time for their gut to catch up,” said Emma Venditti, Brand Manager for Benefiber. “Increased stress along with activities such as traveling and dining out after a prolonged absence disrupt the gut’s comfort as much as your own.”
The past year has given people food for thought when it comes to their overall wellness — three in five said they’ve become more proactive about their immune health.
“Improving your daily habits by eating fiber-rich foods such as whole grains (as well as consuming less alcohol) can contribute to a healthier gut since fiber helps maintain a diverse community of microorganisms in your gut by feeding the good bacteria (probiotics),” said Keri Glassman, Celebrity Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and founder of Nutritious Life.
HOW AMERICANS MANAGE THEIR OVERALL WELLNESS
- Take vitamin supplements 47%
- Exercise 38%
- Eat a healthy diet 35%
- Schedule routine doctor check-ups 32%
- Take a prebiotic fiber or probiotic supplement 31%
- Meditate 27%
- Remove toxic products from the home 25%
AMERICANS’ ANXIETIES ABOUT RESUMING THEIR ROUTINES
- I’m worried about risking my health or the health of my loved ones 46%
- It feels uncomfortable or unnatural to go out in public 40%
- Worried time spent with family will decrease or be impacted negatively 36%
- Worried about my physical appearance 35%
- I’m nervous that I’ll make unhealthy choices when eating out 35%
- I was just getting used to lockdown life 33%
- I’m nervous to return to work in person 33%
- I worry I will exercise less 29%
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