People can become healthier without needing to resort to high-protein diets, according to a dietary expert.

For certain individuals, simply "cutting back" on desserts and alcohol can help to promote healthy eating, according to Dr Sarah Brewer.

Ms Brewer is the author of the Essential Guide to Vitamins, Minerals and Herbal Supplements and she also advises people to consume more fruit and vegetables in their diet.

Ms Brewer said that people should "take lots of exercise and eat more healthily", while protein sources such as lean meat and fish can also help to boost a person's wellbeing.

This news comes after Atkins UK said that many people will have begun diets last month ahead of the upcoming Christmas period.

Atkins UK also instigated the "little black dress day" scheme on October 25th, which is intended to make women feel comfortable with their size and alert them to the hazards of "crash dieting".