Just like that, the year is already halfway through. Wow. It’s time to do two things: Reflect on your intentions and Get to know the weird (read: wacky) wellness trends of 2024. We are here to pour tea. While this isn’t meant to shame the vast world of health trends – as experimentation plays an important role in our health journeys – staying informed is key! From there, we’re looking at health trends for 2024.
Edie Horstman
Edie is the founder of nutritional coaching company Wellness with Edie. Drawing on her background and expertise, she specializes in women’s health, including fertility, hormonal balance, and postpartum health.
How do you know if a wellness trend is worth the hype?
For better or worse, there’s no shortage of wellness trends on social media. Most of us stumble upon a new wellness practice every day. But the fact remains: Wellness crazes are engaging and often go viral. Without tunnel vision, how do you know which trends are worth hyping? What fads should you be wary of? After all, misinformation is rampant. Unfortunately, it’s not that black or white. Often, you won’t know if a trend is worth the hype until you try it.
Questions to ask yourself before trying a wellness trend
Even as a nutritional consultant, Shiny Object Syndrome gets the best of me! I am human. But before I delve into the latest health phenomenon, I ask myself the following questions:
What is the scientific basis for this trend?
- Investigate whether there is any solid research/scientific evidence to support the health claims of this trend. Do your research!
Who is driving this trend?
- Consider the source. Are they a reputable health professional or an influencer with no medical qualifications?
Are there any potential risks or side effects?
- Assess whether this trend poses any health risks or adverse effects.
Is this trend sustainable in the long term?
- Determine if the trend can be maintained in the long term (or, more likely, if it’s just a short-term fix).
What are the financial costs?
- Evaluate the cost of adopting this trend. Is this financially feasible for you? Be realistic.
Does this trend align with my personal health goals?
- Consider whether this trend supports your personal health and wellness goals. Remember, what works for others may not work for you. We are all biological individuals.
Have I consulted with a health care professional?
- This may not be high on your list, but consider asking a professional for advice on this trend.
What do others think of this trend?
- Look for recommendations or reviews from others who have tried it. You’ll get a good idea of their experience and results.
Are there safer or more proven alternatives?
- Is there an established method (or practice) that can achieve the same result more safely?
Am I motivated by hype or genuine interest?
- Don’t kid yourself! Are you interested in this trend because it’s popular or because it really interests you and fits your lifestyle?
Health Trends for 2024
At the end of 2023, we shared our health forecast and our health forecast for 2024. Habit. We want to give you the tools to redefine the nature of self-care. So how do they relate to eccentric What are the health trends emerging so far? Scroll to get the scoop.
Healthy electronic cigarette
E-cigarettes have been controversial for years, but there’s a new twist in 2024: health e-cigarettes. These devices claim to deliver vitamins, essential oils, and even collagen directly to your lungs for rapid absorption. Not surprisingly, health experts are skeptical about the safety and effectiveness of inhaling these substances. The potential risks to lung health far outweigh any unproven benefits, making vaping one of the most questionable trends of the year.
judgment: Instead of vaping, diffuse essential oils into your home! There is an oil to suit every need, mood or ailment.
ice bath diet
Remember when cryotherapy was all the rage? This year, cold water enthusiasts have taken it a step further and introduced the ice bath diet. Proponents claim that taking a daily ice bath does two things: It boosts metabolism and aids in rapid weight loss. Yes, cold temperatures force your body to work harder to stay warm, thereby burning more calories, but prolonged exposure to extreme cold can lead to hypothermia and other health risks.
judgment: Cold water therapy can help blood flow, reduce muscle soreness, and improve overall cardiovascular health, but using it as a dietary tool is far-fetched.
Meal Plan for Carnivores
Chicken liver pancakes and cream, anyone? Carnivore diets are currently making waves, including eating Eat only animal products and eliminate all plant foods. Due to its extreme nature and lack of nutritional balance, it is not sustainable in the long term. There’s a reason we evolved to eat polyphenol-rich fruits and fiber-rich vegetables! Speaking of fiber, a balanced diet that includes fiber is a lot of More beneficial because it supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and provides a variety of nutrients needed for overall health.
judgment: Due to its high protein and fat content, a carnivore diet may provide short-term benefits such as weight loss and reduced inflammation. However, this is not a balanced approach and lacks essential nutrients. It can be harmful to long-term health, so check with your healthcare provider before taking this extreme form of treatment.
Charcoal Latte
If you know it, you know it: Activated carbon has found its way into a variety of products, from our supplements to toothpaste. But this year, we’re seeing the rise of the charcoal latte. These inky drinks are touted to detoxify the body, whiten teeth and improve digestion. While they are an Instagram-worthy photo, there is little scientific evidence to support these claims. Consuming activated charcoal can interfere with the effectiveness of medications and nutrients, making it a trend of the past.
judgment: If you plan to use activated charcoal, use it with caution and do not take it as a daily supplement. For short-term use (such as specific detoxification purposes), 500-1,000 mg once or twice daily for a few days is considered safe. Long-term use or frequent large doses can interfere with nutrient absorption and cause constipation.
moon juice
No, this isn’t a space-age drink from the future. Moon Juice produces the latest wellness concoctions that claim to harness the mystical energy of the moon. Various blends are often made from herbs, adaptogens, and other natural ingredients with benefits ranging from enhancing mental clarity to improving fertility. Despite their whimsical marketing, there is little scientific basis for the efficacy of these lunar elixirs. This trend seems to be more about cosmic appeal than actual health benefits.
judgment: While we’re not promoting the “moon juice” trend, we do love the Sleepy Girl mocktail for its ability to promote restful sleep.
grounding shoes
Grounding (also known as grounding) is not new. This wonderful practice means direct contact with the earth’s surface can improve your health by balancing electrons. Interestingly, you may have experienced full body Exhale When you bury your toes in the sand or walk barefoot through the grass after a long flight. It’s nutritious (research proves it). This year, the trend evolved with the introduction of grounding shoes — yes, shoes — designed with conductive materials that are said to connect you to the energy of the earth. The idea that special shoes could provide significant health benefits is a bit outlandish. But if it calls to you, give it a try!
judgment: Instead of filling your closet with ground shoes, head to your local park/beach. Go barefoot and feel the energy of nature activating your parasympathetic nervous system (the antidote to the stress in our lives!).
glitter smoothie
We have Erewhon to thank for putting expensive smoothies on the map. But in 2024, the smoothie craze reaches its peak. new level With the launch of Glitter Smoothie. These sparkling drinks filled with edible glitter are promoted as a fun and engaging way to boost health. However, glitter has no nutritional value and can even cause digestive issues if consumed in large amounts. The trend highlights how marketers will go to great lengths to make healthy eating visually appealing (even at the expense of common sense).
judgment: Skip the glitter and try our Tropical Pineapple Smoothie, Strawberry Matcha Smoothie or Fig Tahini Smoothie.
crystal water
The wellness world’s fascination with crystals continues with the advent of crystal-infused water. Proponents believe that placing crystals in water can imbue it with positive energy, improving everything from your mood to your skin. While it’s true that staying hydrated is crucial to health, the idea that crystals enhance the properties of water has no scientific basis. This trend is a perfect example of how pseudoscience can infiltrate health practices.
judgment: Want a fun and delicious way to increase your water intake? Try sipping ice-cold coconut water, squeezing citrus into a water bottle, or adding fresh mint and chopped strawberries to a glass.
biohacking implants
Biohacking enthusiasts are always looking for new ways to enhance the body, and this year, the focus has shifted to implants. These small devices inserted under the skin claim to monitor health indicators, deliver supplements, and even provide biofeedback. While some biohacking innovations have potential, the idea of implanting devices for health purposes is fraught with risks, including infection and device malfunction. This trend pushes the boundaries of what is safe and reasonable in pursuit of optimal performance.
judgment: If you’re passionate about understanding how your body responds to food, how to boost energy, and get personalized nutrition advice, consider wearing a continuous glucose monitor!
sleeping tent
To optimize sleep, some health enthusiasts are turning to sleep tents. These enclosed, often portable structures are designed to create the perfect sleeping environment by blocking out light and sound, regulating temperature, and even emitting calming scents. While a good night’s sleep is vital to your health, the necessity of sleeping in an indoor tent is questionable, to say the least. This trend seems to cater more to those seeking novelty than solving actual sleep problems.
judgment: Skip the sleep tent and focus on these proven tips for better sleep.
Proceed with caution
From ice bath diets to sleep tents, 2024 is the year of bizarre wellness trends (but are we surprised?). While some of these practices may create a placebo effect or temporary novelty, most have little scientific evidence and may even pose health risks.
As a good rule of thumb, approach new health trends with a critical eye and rely on proven methods to maintain good health. Hopefully the second half of the year will bring more sustainable health practices.
