Dr. Marita Weighs In On Trends in Health for 2024

With the world at our fingertips, trends seem to rise and fall  like a kid on a pogostick. One minute everyone’s saying skinny jeans are out, and the next minute they’re back. 

Is anyone else's head spinning?

This can be especially confusing when it comes to health trends. The rise of ‘health influencers’ and the sparkling carrot of viral fame has led to claims circling around that promise to be the ultimate secret to perfect health… but what is the truth? 

Let’s sift through some of the top health trends we’ve seen so far in 2024 and I’ll weigh in on whether they’re worth your time, or just another passing trend. 

Plant Based or Animal Based Diets

We’ve seen a rise in the last few years of vegan and plant based diets. With benefits touted for weight, longevity, glowing skin, and a lower carbon footprint. On the opposite end, 2024 has also seen the rise in the trend of ‘carnivore’ or heavily animal based diets, also promising the same benefits. These two trending streams seem to war against one another and throw the other under scrutiny. Are these extreme diets really the basis for prime health?

Dr. Marita’s Verdict: The thing about an optimal diet is it is extremely individual. What works for one person might be terrible for you. Each of our bodies are unique, and have unique nutritional needs. In general, the healthiest diet is a balanced one that incorporates mainly whole organic foods such as meat, fish, dairy, beans, legumes, fruit, vegetables, and grains. You might find your body does better eating higher plant proteins, or you might find you do better when you eat meat. There is no one size fits all when it comes to diet. 

Adaptogens and Mushrooms

A growing trend in the health product industry is the use of adaptogens and medicinal mushrooms. These products tend to promise better digestion, more energy, mood boosts, clear skin, and mental clarity. Are they all they’re chalked up to be?

Dr. Marita’s Verdict: The benefits of adaptogens, medicinal mushrooms, and probiotics are something I work with in my practice. Some of these have been used in wellness for thousands of years, particularly in Chinese Medicine. While they certainly aren’t a ‘miracle’ cure, they can go a long way in supporting good health!

Hot and Cold Therapy

It seems like every health influencer out there jumped on the train of ice baths and saunas in the last year. Cold plunging followed by heat such as a sauna or hot bath is said to help promote nervous system regulation, lymphatic drainage, boost energy and mood, and more. But are you shivering your buns off for nothing?

Dr. Marita’s Verdict: Hot and cold therapy does have tried and true benefits, especially for healing injuries and reducing inflammation. It’s a yes from me. 

Gut Health Support

There has been a rise in the importance of probiotics, with a lot of supplements floating around, along with a trend toward eating foods to support gut health, like miso, kimchi, and sauerkraut. These trends speak to the benefits of a thriving gut flora, such as optimal digestion, clear skin, better mental health and more. 

Dr. Marita’s Verdict: Your gut microbiome is the key to a healthy body, with impacts in every area of your health. I’m all for gut health trending!

Weight Training

We are seeing more and more people, especially women, incorporate weight lifting into their fitness routines. Many women are saying they have never looked or felt better, plus reporting more energy along with feeling empowered and strong. 

Dr. Marita’s Verdict: Weight training is an excellent addition to fitness routines. Long term studies show as we age it helps maintain strong bones, and protect against injuries. It also helps to shift body composition to include more muscle, which means you burn more calories– this can improve weight loss for those wanting to lean out.

At the end of the day, good health is not found in gimmicks, hacks, or even the shiniest new health product or diet. These can help support it, absolutely, but the foundation for good health is rooted in your basic everyday habits.