As we head into the last quarter of the year, it’s interesting to look back at the predictions experts made about wellness trends. Keeping tabs on health news will help you know how to spend your time investment in your health wisely and make sure it pays off.
The following are 3 wellness trends to keep your eye on, plus 1 that you can take or leave.
Probiotic Skincare
You have heard about probiotics, right? Probiotics are the study and use of microorganisms, AKA bacteria, that benefit the host. Probiotic foods that contain this good-for-you bacteria include yogurt, kimchi, etc.
As the body of study on probiotics grows, experts have begun to delve into the ways that probiotics can be applied to skincare. Companies have developed a way to use probiotics to reverse aging and restore health to one’s skin. As well as reduce inflammation. It’s fascinating to find that bacteria–the right kind–can be used to strengthen one’s skin as an anti-aging defense. If you were on the probiotics bandwagon before this, you will love this trend. And if you are just learning about probiotics, this should get you in the mood to finally see for yourself what all the fuss is about.
Inflammation Awareness
Inflammation is your body’s response to anything that it deems could weaken your overall health. Cuts, bruises, and allergies can all trigger your immune system to respond in this way. But when your inflammation response goes on overdrive, bad things happen in the body. Inflammation has now been connected to a wide range of illnesses. From acne to bloating to putting a person at higher risk of heart disease and some cancers. Study and research on inflammation have grown, as has coverage of it. We now know that certain foods aggravate our body’s inflammatory response. For example, sugar, vegetable oil, refined flour, deep-fried foods, etc.
The welcome news is that even while there are foods that aggravate inflammation, there are also foods that fight inflammation. Harvard Health recommends the following foods to keep inflammation at bay.
- fatty fish, such as tuna, sardines, mackerel, and salmon
- nuts
- green leafy vegetables
- olive oil
- tomatoes
- fruits, such as blueberries, oranges, cherries, etc.
Plant-Based Proteins
The public is finding out that protein doesn’t only come from animals. (This awareness has been helped along by documentaries such as What the Health.) In fact, a diet centered around proteins from animal meats has been linked to cancer and other illnesses.
And most Americans are eating more protein than they should. An analysis in 2015 showed that adult men were eating 100 grams of protein daily. Almost 50 percent more than the daily recommended amount. (The USDA recommends 46 grams for women and 56 grams for men per day.)
In Asian countries where one’s diet consists largely of plant-based proteins, it can be easier to find animal protein alternatives. But there is good news for those in the Western world with a history of steak, hamburgers, and chicken wings in their daily diet. Hemp, bean, and pea-based proteins are showing up everywhere. From powders that can be blended into smoothies to veggie burgers that taste like the real deal.
But what if your grocery store only has basic offerings? You are still in luck. Here are common plant proteins that are in every supermarket that will help you fulfill your protein goals. While also helping you get in your vegetable quota for the day.
- Cooked edamame / 18 grams of protein in 1 cup
- Tofu / 8 to 15 grams of protein per 3 ounces
- Lentils / 9 grams of protein per 1/2 cup
- Black beans / 7 grams of protein per 1/2 cup
- Peanut butter / 7 grams of protein per 2 tbsp
What to Skip: Healing Crystals
Yes, healing crystals are getting their moment in the sun. And if you are looking for a reason to purchase a pretty trinket, then this might be a reasonable excuse. However, for the price you pay for that crystal jewelry, crockery, or home decor, you might be better off going with a health fad that has proven benefits. Plus, a little more scientific research to back up those pretty trinkets that go beyond the placebo effect.
Taking care of oneself should be at the top of our priority list because one’s health is the thing that makes the rest possible. And keeping yourself informed on the latest research will help you make better choices.