Health and Wellness Trends for 2024
In the dynamic space of health and wellness it can be difficult to know what’s a trend and what’s here to stay. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, caught up, and burnt out in “wellness” trends that aren’t actually that god for you, or things that simply drain the bank, or worse, your energy, without a lot of return on investment.
Here are 4 wellness trends that I’m seeing for 2024 that I think are worth your time and attention.
1. Metabolic Health
Metabolic health emerges as a wellness cornerstone, encompassing critical bodily functions and nutritional dynamics. Fundamentally, metabolic health is the harmonious interplay of hormone balance, nutrient absorption, and energy conversion. This topic gained significant traction with the introduction of weight loss drugs like Ozempic, which have revolutionized discussions around weight management and diabetes treatment. It’s estimated that almost 12% of the US population has diabetes and obesity rates have skyrocketed to almost 42% [of Americans] in the past decade. We have also seen an increase in diagnosis of reproductive health difficulties in both men and women (specifically polycystic ovary syndrome linked to insulin resistance). Statistics continue to show us that our current nutritional model and healthcare system are unsupportive of true health and wellness. In 2024 I think we will begin to see more questioning of Big Food (similar to Big Tobacco or Big Pharma), a rise in holistic nutritional recommendations and herbal supplements to promote metabolic balance, and discussions related to preventative medicine over symptom management and disease treatment.
If metabolic health interests you, check out these podcasts, Huberman Lab, Healthier Together. One of my favorite books, and a book I want to read.
2. Minerals
A newer topic moving into 2024 will be the discussion of minerals, a topic that has been overshadowed by the narrower focus on electrolytes. This year, we’re going to see a surge in interest and awareness about the broad spectrum of minerals, including trace minerals (copper,
chromium, fluoride, iodine, iron, manganese, selenium, and zinc) and macro minerals (calcium, chloride, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and sulfur). These elements are not just additives, but are foundational to our body’s complex system. Minerals are required for optimal functions of the immune system, hormone health, energy levels, reproductive health, and the cardiovascular system. In 2024 We will be looking at more options for comprehensive mineral supplementation and mineral rich nutrition recommendations will become key in achieving optimal health and wellness.
My favorite mineral rich foods to add into my diet: white beans, chickpeas, dark leafy greens (spinach, kale), and salmon. Nuts are the best for minerals, having 7/8 of the essential minerals, If you don’t have a nut allergy, the best nuts are Brazil nuts, almonds, and cashews.
I add this to my daily tea: My favorite mineral supplement.
3. Mobility
In 2024 I think we will see an insurgence of the critical importance of mobility work, shifting from the traditional focus of strength training and cardiovascular endurance (both still important!). Mobility work includes dynamic stretching, yoga, and functional movement exercises with the goal to prevent injury and maintain, or even enhance, physical abilities as we age. This emerging trend is rooted in more recent discussions of longevity and sustainable health practices, we are shifting the perspective from fitness being about muscle strength and endurance, to the idea that fitness must include the ability to move freely and effortlessly in our daily lives for as long as possible. Benefits of mobility include reduced pain, injury prevention, increased flexibility, and sustained physical independence. Incorporating mobility work into a fitness routine ensures that health span (the amount of time spent in generally good health), not simply life-span is important.
This YouTube channel has easy to incorporate mobility routines.
4. Mocktails
A huge cultural shift is occurring as it pertains to alcohol consumption. This movement is fueled by the growing awareness of the impacts of alcohol on health, it is more than a trend, it’s a growing lifestyle choice for those questioning societal norms and seeking healthier alternatives. Recent statistics reveal a notable decrease in alcohol consumption, with a report indicating a 20% decline in alcohol sales for 2023. There has also been a surge in popularity of mocktails and zero-proof beverages, evidenced by their increased visibility in marketing campaigns and new product lines by major beverage companies. In 2024 we will see more mocktail menus and bars offering a more health-conscious way to socialize and unwind.
Here are a few of my favorite zero-proof options: Kin Euphorics, Recess. And one I want to try from a popular alcoholic beverage company, White Claw.
What health and wellness trends are you interested in for 2024? What is a trend you are seeing that you think I should investigate? Let me know! I’d love to hear from you.
