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More people are doing what they can to save money, which has not only improved people's finances but has also begun to improve their health too.

In fact, ten million people in Britain feel more fit and healthy than they did this time last year as a result of the recession, according to Friends Provident. What’s more, this trend looks set to continue, with 57% of respondents admitting they’d like to do more to take care of their body and health.

Over the past year, 83% have changed their eating habits, with 48% of those surveyed by the insurer eating fewer ready meals or takeaways. It’s not just cutting down on unhealthy habits though – 13 million people are saying they have replaced the junk food with healthy alternatives like fresh food and home-grown vegetables.

People who were previously struggling with debt are reassessing where their money is going and have realised that their lives are simpler and healthier when they spend less.

The recession has meant our whole approach to food seems to be changing – when it comes to drinking, almost 10% of people are cutting out the booze to save money. Overall, there has been a 17% drop in those who regularly drink more alcohol than the recommended limit. Looking forward, a further 12% of respondents would like to cut their alcohol intake even more.

An encouraging 55% of respondents frequently exercise for 30 minutes, 5 days a week. The recession seems to have changed the type of exercise that people are doing, with 19% of people taking part in more free methods of exercise, such as running, or following home exercise videos.

Mark Jones, head of protection at Friends Provident, says: “Even though the recession has had an impact on a lot of the UK’s population, it’s encouraging to see that some of this impact has been positive. The financial pressures combined with personal motivation have led people to take a fresh look at their lifestyle and priorities. As a result, it looks like many have changed for the better.

"Changing habits to lead a more healthy lifestyle today may motivate them to continue this trend in the future and contribute to securing a longer healthier life even if we can’t guarantee long term wealth.”

SOURCE: Friends Provident, 30/09/09

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