Our Seven Favorite Health Trends from 2018
Each year, we see new health and wellness trends hit the market. Some have their moment in the spotlight and then fizzle away, while others resonate and make an impact on people’s lives.
When it comes to our health, the majority of what we do should be routine. We shouldn’t be following fad diets or juicing just because we see a celebrity endorsement. Instead, we should nourish our bodies every day with the proper food and nutrition so that we can live a full, vibrant, and healthy life. However, that doesn’t mean we don’t like to mix things up and see what the hype is all about every once in a while (hello, celery juice!).
Here are seven of our favorite health trends of 2018 that we think will continue to pick up steam in the year ahead.
1. At-home fitness
What’s better than working out in your own home? With the rise in popularity of the Peloton bike, and the launch of their treadmill earlier this year, Peloton has become a leader in the world of at-home fitness. Flywheel has taken notice, and the company launched its own Fly Anywhere bike in 2018. We love the idea of virtual fitness and being able to join a class or take an on-demand class from your basement or living room. Plus, companies like Mirror are taking it a step further by offering a total-body workout that you view…on a mirror!
2. Organic and natural beauty
We’ve become so aware of what we’re putting in our bodies that now we’re finally paying attention to what we’re putting on our bodies. There’s been an emergence of makeup brands gaining attention because of their nontoxic products, including Bite Beauty (natural and organic), 100% Pure (made with natural ingredients), and Ilia Beauty (uses organic bioactive botanicals). Even retail giant Sephora launched a clean beauty category in May. We love that brands are providing more clean options for customers and that this health trend is extending from food and fitness to beauty!
3. Non-dairy yogurt and milks
Vegan and gluten-free alternatives to yogurt and milk (and just about everything!) were in high demand this year. With as much as 75% of the world’s population having a dairy intolerance, it makes sense that this trend is here to stay. Plus, there are lots of options to suit your taste buds and preferences, including almond, soy, rice, coconut, hemp, and most recently, oat. We always recommend purchasing the unsweetened milks and plain yogurts to ensure that you’re getting the most nutritious option!
4. CBD
CBD comes from the cannabis sativa plant but shouldn’t be confused with any THC products on the market. CBD is available for purchase in several forms, like oil, tea, capsules, and topical balms. Used to treat anxiety, stress, acne, pain, epilepsy, and even cancer, CBD offers benefits that are both promising and wide-ranging. Since doses and products vary, we recommend doing your research to decide which form of CBD is best for your health concerns. As with the use of most supplements and medications, you’ll need to allow some time to adjust to CBD; don’t be surprised if it takes a few weeks to notice a difference.
5. “Healing” spices
Before this year, many of us were probably using spices to enhance the flavor of our food. We weren’t thinking about which spices could reduce inflammation or benefit our gut. But in 2018, we saw the rise in “healing” spices in the form of turmeric lattes, ginger cold-pressed juice shots, and cinnamon everything! We were encouraged to use and consume more spices, ranging from turmeric and peppermint to cayenne and coriander.
6. Fitness apps
Traveling, snowed in, or just super busy? No problem. The idea of being able to exercise anytime, anywhere really took off this year. Several brands, like Barry’s Bootcamp, Aaptiv, P.volve, and Obe Fitness, now have fitness apps, so no matter where you are, you can still squeeze in a workout. And while some virtual workouts require equipment to get a good sweat, others require as little as a set of light weights.
7. Collagen
Eat it, drink it, or lather your skin with it. Collagen is the most abundant protein found in your body and has many functions – from shaping to strengthening your bones, muscles, skin, and brain. You’ve also probably seen collagen used in countless beauty products due to its antiaging benefits. The good news: Our bodies naturally produce collagen. The bad news: Its production slows down with age. We suggest starting small – maybe adding a scoop of collagen to your morning coffee or juice – and seeing if you feel different after some time!
Which trends do you think will take the world by storm in 2019? Share in the comments below, and have a happy and healthy new year!