Biggest Health and Wellness Trends for 2019
In 2018, the desire to detox was on everyone’s minds. We said goodbye to our smartphones by going on total digital detoxes, ate activated charcoal to cleanse the body (despite the lack of scientific evidence) and embraced Orangetheory fitness to sweat out toxins.
This year, we’re seeing a slightly different approach to health and wellness. In 2019, the trends appear to be centered on practicing self-care, taking a plant-based approach to eating and embracing technology to fine-tune our health.
What’s in store for the year ahead? Here are the health and wellness trends that will be huge in 2019:
Botox for Men
As Botox becomes less stigmatized, an increasing number of men are turning to this minimally invasive procedure to eliminate their fine lines and wrinkles. According to the latest statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Botox treatments have increased 30 percent from 2012 to 2017 and was the top nonsurgical procedure for both men and women.
The surge in Botox treatments for men is thought to be influenced in part by the rise of social media and selfies, along with the desire to remain competitive in their careers. It’s not just older men who are turning to this treatment. Men in their 20s and 30s are getting what’s known as “preventative Botox” to keep wrinkles at bay.
If you’d rather avoid the needles and steep cost of Botox, a powerful firming serum for men can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The key is to look for ingredients such as Retinol and Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, a potent peptide that is so effective at erasing wrinkles that it’s sometimes called “Botox in a Jar.”
DNA Testing
DNA testing kits such as 23andMe and Veritas Genetics have exploded in popularity over the last few years. Now, you no longer need to comb through your family history to discover your ethnic mix or potential heritable diseases. These kits will do all the work for you.
Using the data gathered from your DNA report, you can then create a customized health plan that’s tailored for you. For example, a man who discovers that he has a gene variant associated with hereditary thrombophilia may work with his nutritionist about a diet to reduce dangerous blood clots.
This information is invaluable for many who worry about their genetic risk of certain diseases. Although a DNA kit can’t provide definitive answers regarding your health (there are also lifestyle and environmental factors to consider), they’re a good start for a healthier 2019.
CBD-Infused Products
After the recent passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, cannabidiol (or CBD as it’s called) is now all over the news. Available in sweets, tinctures, oils, sprays and more, this cannabis compound is believed to help a vast array of health issues, from physical pain and inflammation to reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The use of CBD is still controversial, and opponents of the bill are quick to point out that scientific research has not caught up with the hype of CBD. However, there is some evidence that CBD can alleviate symptoms associated with some neuropsychiatric disorders.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that individuals who suffered from insomnia had significantly improved sleep after taking 160 mg cannabidiol. Another more recent study published in Phytotherapy Research confirmed that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties after improving inflammatory bowel disease in subjects.
Healthy Subscription Boxes
It’s not easy to form healthy habits that stick. That may be why so many people can’t seem to get enough of the subscription box model.
From healthy superfoods and curated meat boxes to high-quality skin care systems, health-related subscription boxes make it far easier to develop good habits. With everything you need sent straight to your door each month, there is no longer an excuse not to get on a regular skin care regimen or cook a healthy meal.
Another appeal of a subscription box is the simple enjoyment of getting a package. Who doesn’t love receiving a recurring gift that is personalized just for them?
HIIT Hybrid Classes
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts promise fast results in little time. In 2019, prepare for your HIIT workout to get a massive makeover.
HIIT hybrid classes are now popping up all over the country and offer the same calorie-torching intensity with a unique twist. Hybrid yoga classes now incorporate HIIT workouts including squat jumps and pushups, while traditional spin classes get a HIIT blast by incorporating TRX strength bands.
High-Tech Recovery
After all those hybrid HIIT classes, your muscles will no doubt be sore for days. Why not speed up your recovery time with high-tech muscle therapy?
In 2019, the use of high-tech recovery devices is no longer reserved for professional athletes. Fitness enthusiasts are now using recovery tech to speed up their recovery time and come back stronger than ever.
From percussion guns such as Theragun to mild electric shock therapy machines, new recovery devices are now being marketed directly to consumers. Although many of them still aren’t cheap, they are a worthy investment for those who are serious about their fitness.
Diverse Offerings of Vegan Proteins
With more millennials reducing their meat consumption or swearing off meat products altogether, the vegan protein market is having a huge moment. Suddenly, health and eco-conscious individuals are scrambling for plant-based proteins that mimic their favorite, guilty-pleasure foods.
Food chains such as Carl’s Jr. are also jumping on the vegan protein. The burger chain recently partnered with Beyond Meat to create the Beyond Famous Star Burger, a Carl’s Jr. plant-based burger.
Even Pizza Hut has gotten in on the action with their vegan jackfruit pizza. If going meat-free in 2019 is your goal, you’ll now have plenty of vegan-friendly options this year.
Adaptogens
Adaptogens (or adaptogenic substances) also appear to be taking off in the health and wellness industry. Often used in Ayurvedic and old Chinese medicine, these plant-based supplements are believed to increase the body’s resistance to stress.
You may have heard of some of the more popular adaptogens. This includes cordyceps, a fungus which may boost vitality and longevity, and maca, a Peruvian plant which is believed to enhance stamina, memory and athletic performance.
Although there are few studies (and none that are recent) on adaptogens specifically, this hasn’t stopped companies from offering them via skin creams, drink powders and in supplement form.
Final Thoughts
If your New Year’s resolution was to become healthier in 2019, one of these trends could finally be the key to sticking to your goal. Just be sure to do your own research—especially with any food trends.
Health trends aren’t always backed by science (i.e., last year’s activated charcoal trend). Although it might sound tedious, taking the time to investigate the claims behind the most popular health and wellness trends will ensure that you come out on top in 2019.