Need a little help sticking to your resolutions and making better choices overall? Discover 10 fabulous new health trends and keep your New Year goals heading in the right direction!
10 Health Trends for 2021 You Have To Try
Whether you’re trying to stick to a New Year’s resolution or just want to make better choices all year, every year, then these are the 10 new health trends to try! Below, we’ll look at some of the hottest trends that actually make sense (versus the fads that will fade by the end of the year) and see how we can incorporate them into our everyday lives.
Then, we’ll take a look at some trends from the past that are still absolutely worth trying! One little note, though, before we start. I know you know this, but just in case- this is not medical advice. As always, talk to your doctor before trying any new health trends. Even the most seemingly innocent can cause problems for those with certain conditions. Got it? Good! Let’s get started!
1. “Radical” self-care
After the year we just had, we definitely need to focus a bit more on taking care of our minds and bodies. While self-care itself isn’t exactly a new trend, experts predict that 2021 will be the year of “radical self-care.” Take a look at the quote below from Indiana State University to see what they mean by “radical.”
Radical Self-care is the assertion that you have the responsibility to take care of yourself first before attempting to take care of others. It’s necessary to fill your cup first, then to give to others from the overflow. This is what gives you the capacity to heal and to move forward into your next chapter of life.
You know how when you’re in a plane listening to the pre-flight announcements and they tell you to put your oxygen mask on before helping another with theirs? We know why they recommend that- you can’t help anyone else if you’re not breathing yourself, right?
Well, that’s the driving concept behind radical self-care: you can’t help your family and other loved ones if you’re passed out, wiped out, or wrung out yourself. So, give yourself permission to put your needs first more often.
2. A stronger focus on clean air
That sounds weird, I know. I mean, clean air should be a priority, not a trend, right? Still, experts predict that more people will focus on making sure they’re breathing the cleanest air possible in their homes, work, and even when they shop.
Last year taught us not to take breathing for granted. Again, that sounds like an odd thing to say, but really, have you ever thought about your breathing as much as you have since this whole thing started? Prior to February of 2020, half of the world didn’t even know what a pulse oximeter was, let alone how to use one! Also, as John Hopkins Medicine explains, COVID-19 can leave long-lasting respiratory complications, especially for those who suffered a moderate-to-severe case.
You can incorporate this into your own daily life by investing in a good air purifier, like the one below. Cutting back on (or better yet, eliminate) chemical household cleaners can also make a huge difference. For example, try this DIY All Natural Bathroom Cleaner instead of chemical-laden sprays and foams.
3. Eating more microgreens
Have you heard of microgreens? If not, you definitely will this year! These types of greens are basically the “shoots” of leafy salad veggies (like Swiss chard, beetroot and such) that are picked right after the very first leaves appear. Think of them as very young vegetables! They’re not quite the same as baby greens, though. Healthline explains that, “unlike baby greens, they are much smaller in size and can be sold before being harvested.”
Some of the most popular microgreens include young:
- Cauliflower
- Broccoli
- Spinach
- Cabbage
- Watercress
- Onions & leeks
- Carrots
Cauliflower is definitely one of my favorites, as it’s amazingly versatile. You can pulse raw florets in a food processor to make cauliflower rice, steam it and blend to make a delicious mash, or just remove the leaves, shove it in the oven and bake it whole. It’s low in carbs and calories and high in fiber, vitamin C, folate and potassium. It also contains compounds called glucosinolates, which are thought to have anti-cancer properties.
I love cooking with cauliflower. Take a look at my Cauliflower Risotto With Grilled Shrimp, Easy Chinese Cauliflower Fried Rice or Cauliflower Popcorn for easy to make recipe ideas.
4. Fresh Seaweed (or Kelp) as part of our overall healthy diets
According to Philly Voice, 2021 will see a rise of kelp and seaweed in our everyday recipes. Seaweed, called Nori in Japanese, has always been a big part of Asian diets, dating back thousands of years. Now, it’s finally making its way to the US as more than just an occasional addition to miso soup.
Not only is kelp super eco-friendly, it’s also loaded with amazing nutrients. WebMD explains that it contains “ten times as many minerals as plants grown in soil.” Kelp is a rich source of calcium, magnesium, folate, and Vitamin K. It’s also high in iodine, which can help prevent thyroid problems. Plus, a single serving offers up 5 grams of protein yet only has 68 calories and absolutely 0 grams of sugar.
Maine Seaweed’s website has some great tips on using it in recipes, as does Happy Body Formula. Add it to soups and salads or even make noodles from it!
5. Meditation in all forms
Meditation is making a huge comeback this year! It’s one of the easiest and best natural remedies, after all. This trend pairs perfectly with the self-care trend, as meditating is good for your mind, body and soul. We all need a few minutes of total peace to recharge and alleviate stress.
For those who simply can’t turn off their brains, there are other ways to get your Zen on. It isn’t just about sitting quietly and emptying your brain. Any activity that brings you peace can count towards your daily meditation goal. That includes everything from knitting to coloring to yoga. You can also download apps like Calm, or even watch one of those nifty “Zenimation” videos on Disney+. As long as your activity brings you peace and tranquility, go for it.
6. Home workout routines
With gyms closed around the country throughout a good chunk of last year, we finally learned that you don’t have to drop hundreds of dollars a year in membership fees to get in a good workout. In fact, you don’t even need a single piece of equipment! Just your own body, a little space, and some time is really all it takes to exercise.
For those who don’t quite know where to start, expect to see an increase in YouTube videos (like the one below) with equipment-free ideas for all body types. Just remember to start slow and talk to your doctor before diving into the deep end of aerobics!
7. More cooking at home versus takeout
I am just so thrilled to see that home cooking is becoming such a major health trend. I’ve always said that it’s one of the single most important things you can do for your health. When you cook your own food, YOU control every last ingredient.
While this trend started last year in the wake of restaurant closures, experts expect it to continue well beyond the end of our current situation. Now that more people realize that you don’t have to be a master chef to make good food, they’ll actually want to keep it up. Along with a focus on healthier eating in general, cooking at home is a lot more affordable than dining out. Even fast food is insanely expensive compared to a generation ago!
If you need some easy home-cooking ideas, take a look through my recipe section! I only share recipes that just about anyone can make, even if you’ve never cooked before in your life.
8. Spending more time outdoors
The great outdoors made a major comeback last year, too. Expect to see that continue well into this year (and hopefully beyond). Being outdoors gave us an opportunity to escape the confines of our house yet still respect social distancing guidelines. We can hike, bike or even just slowly stroll down a street without getting within 6 feet of another person.
The benefits of spending time outside are countless. It gives us a break from staring at a screen all day, for one thing. The fresh air is good for our lungs, exercise is good for our hearts, and just being in nature helps bring us a bit more peace of mind. Plus, this trend won’t cost you a dime to incorporate into your life. Just put on your shoes (and a coat, if you’re up north) and walk out your door. Easy, peasy!
9. Essential oils keep up their momentum
Essential oils made a major comeback in recent years and show no signs of stopping their forward momentum anytime soon. More and more people are turning to natural remedies to supplement (or even as an alternative to) modern medicine.
“ Essentials oils are packed with vitamins, amino acids and anti oxidants so they won’t dry your skin.” says Skincare Expert, Sonja Dymalowski at What Skin Needs. “Instead, they can smooth fine lines and heal blemishes at the same time.”
Go for natural products that combine the finest essential oils, like this amazing Organic Anti Aging Oil Serum
. A natural face oil, serum & moisturizer packed with vitamins A, C, E, omegas, essential fatty acids and antioxidants.
You can also use essential oils to alleviate symptoms of common illnesses (with guidance from a medical professional, of course). These natural oils are also fantastic for kids, just make sure you know which ones are safe. Take a look at my Safe Essential Oils for Children article and find out more information. Detox Baths for kids and adults are also amazing when combined with essential oils. They are so relaxing and great for a strong and healthy immune system.
10. No more doomscrolling
If you spend half your day (or heck, even half your morning) scrolling through negative news stories online, then you’re doomscrolling. While keeping up with what’s going on in the world is a good thing, spending hours of our lives endlessly scrolling through bad news can actually become an addiction. That, in turn, wreaks havoc on your mental health.
This year, for the sake of your emotional well-being, spend less time obsessively scrolling through negativity and more time focusing on the positive. Set limits on how much time you dedicate to reading the news each day. Once it’s up, it’s up. Move on. Also, don’t start your morning with a dose of bad news. Save your “doom and gloom” headlines for later in the day.
Past Health Trends That Are Still Totally Worth Doing
While these aren’t exactly brand-new health trends (I shared them last year), they’re definitely worth trying (or continuing).
Getting more omega 3 from algae
This one ties in beautifully with this year’s seaweed health trend! It’s amazingly eco-friendly as well as nutritious! As I’m sure you know, there is a real concern about the sustainability of fish due to over farming of our oceans. Omega 3 from algae allows us to have the benefits of healthy fats without affecting the fish stock.
You can find a good quality Algae Omega
and start incorporating it in your daily diet. This supplement has an effective ratio of DHA to EPA for complete nutritional support for the heart, brain, eyes, and immune system.
Tiger Nuts
Tiger nuts are a small root vegetable that grows in the Mediterranean and Africa. They’re a traditional food in these areas and have been eaten as far back as the Stone Age. Tiger nut milk is also a traditional drink in Spain.
“Tiger nuts are commonly found in the form of tiger nut flour
– great alternative gluten-free, grain-free flour that can be used in baking or cooking and that’s suitable for all types of diets from vegan to Paleo to nut-free.” explains nutritionist Cassandra Barns. “These nuts are high in fiber and contain calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium, amongst other valuable nutrients.”
Chewable probiotics for dental care
People are getting more and more concerned about their teeth and their dental health. One way to help prevent any infections and the build up of bacteria is by taking probiotics in a chewable
form. Cassandra explains, “As well as taking care of our intestinal health, friendly bacteria also live in our mouth and help to take care of our teeth and gums too. For this reason, chewable probiotics could help to keep our oral health in check.”
Super-spices
After years of ‘superfoods’ like avocado and quinoa reigning, it’s time to pass the crown to… super-spices! Turmeric is one of the most powerful. It contains Curcumin, which has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Curcumin has also been shown to help relieve the pain of arthritis, injuries and even dental procedures! Lily Soutter, Nutritionist and weight loss expert says, “Trying to detox? Spice up your dishes with turmeric
to help the liver function properly.
It stimulates production of bile by the gallbladder that is used by liver to filter and expel toxins. You can also take turmeric supplements
with the active Curcumin for similar effect.”
Filipino cuisine
While Thai and Vietnamese foods are known throughout the Western world, Filipino food has been slower to catch on. However, this really changed over the last year! Lily says, “There are many healthy and flavoursome choices available such as Paket – a vegetable dish full of spices, adobo – meat marinated in vinegar and soy sauce, Ginataang – a fish stew, roasted lemon grass chicken as well as Tortang Talong – an aubergine and egg based breakfast.” Stay tuned and visit my blog this year for new and exciting Filipino recipes.
Everything sparkling! Including teas
Drinks with a fizz are gaining popularity by the day and this trend is being translated into health drinks too. Sparkling sugar free infused waters are starting to appear and there’s even a sparkling matcha tea
.
Watermelon water as new coconut water
Watermelon water is taken from the whole juice of a watermelon. Cassandra says, “Like coconut water, it contains natural electrolyte minerals. It’s especially high in potassium, which has the benefit of keeping our blood pressure in a healthy range. It also contains lycopene – one of the most powerful and protective antioxidants found in plants.” Watermelon is the way to go!
Just remember that eating healthy is as important as living a healthy lifestyle. Most of us need a better work-life balance. Stress is a primary cause of ill health, both short and long-term. Take time for yourself and exercise regularly. You also need a good 7-8 hours of sleep a day to stay healthy.
If you are interested, please check out my recipes for easy to make, healthy, and homemade family meals. I am not a chef or have many years of experience cooking, so most of my recipes are very easy to prepare.
Taking care of our health should be our number one priority because the benefits are just amazing. We can feel better physically and emotionally! Living a healthy lifestyle is so worth it in my opinion. So, go ahead and incorporate at least a few of these health trends into your life. You’ll thank yourself for it later!
Last update on 2021-05-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Mandy Weber says
Good worthwhile tips! There are many aspects of healthy living worth thinking about. I’m still far from a person whose lifestyle can be called wholesome, but I’m interested in the subject and trying to change my attitude to many things.