Every year, there seems to be new health trends and fads that millions of people vehemently follow. The year 2019 was an influential one in terms of health and wellness changes in society that will impact the future going forward. These significant changes include a movement in less meat and plant-based substitutes, essential oils and CBD oils, as well as an increase in at home and on the go exercise regimens. 

While many of these changes seem to be good for most Americans, the future of their influence may be temporary as our society tends to focus on different fads and health concerns each year. A more intense focus on exercise, health, and wellness is certainly a positive stride as more people are caring about the food they eat and its impact on the environment. While everyone has different lifestyle choices, we will review the biggest changes in health and wellness in the past year. Many of which we believe will continue on into the new decade.

Health & Fitness Watches

A trend most of us have noticed in 2019 was the rise in fitness watches. Whether an Apple Watch or a Fitbit, these watches are on the wrists of many people working out in gyms, jogging around the neighborhood, or even nurses counting their steps. These types of apps allow people to record their steps in a day, breathing, sleeping habits, heart rate, and blood pressure. This seems like a good idea, right? Well, yes it is. Although the average person probably doesn’t know what are healthy or unhealthy numbers. They do not realize if their blood pressure or breathing rate is dangerously low or high. 

Having these fitness apps does not mean you should avoid seeing your doctor or ignore their advice, and instead listen to a piece of hardware. If someone is regularly seeing their doctor for health exams and managing medical conditions, there is no harm in counting your steps or tracking your breathing at night. If it makes you more incentivized to be active and exercise, then its benefits are definitely worthwhile. Especially for children and teenagers who are not exercising as much as previous generations. 

Holistic & Alternative Medicine

The use of holistic medicine and other nature-derived forms of pain relief has increased. Essential oils from various big brands are being marketed to consumers through social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram. For individuals living with chronic pain and health conditions, they claim that these oils alleviate some of their symptoms. Through the use of oils such as Lemon, Lavender, and Peppermint, users report being able to lower stress levels, sleep better, and overall feel calmer about life. Whether these benefits are truly derived from these oils or some of it is believed to be true by the user is still undetermined long-term. 

In addition to the use of essential oils, CBD oils have been used by many consumers in America last year. With the legalization of marijuana in multiple states in 2019, this is increasing the demand for CBD oils and related products. The increased demand has led to the creation of many businesses to keep up with this newer consumer product. However, the long-term side effects of using CBD oils and vaping products, and what damage they may cause is still being studied. It is best to speak to a doctor before ingesting any of these products into one’s lungs. 

A Move Towards Vegetarian/Veganism 

In the last few years, society is moving towards a less meat consuming population. This does not mean that everyone will become a vegetarian. Instead, many are suggesting to not eat red meat every day as that has its own health risks and to even try plant-based meats, called “Beyond Meat.” This newer substitute to meat is being used in restaurants and fast-food chains like Burger King and McDonald’s. It contains mung beans, soy, and peas. Many people say that it tastes like real meat, I personally haven’t tried it and cannot attest. 

A heightened focus on environmentalism and caring for the earth is another reason for the move to a more meatless society. Consuming too much meat has been proven to lead to high cholesterol and heart disease. Beyond that, a lower need for meat is helpful for the environment and involves fewer animals which are important for animal lovers. This is not to say one should cut out meat entirely, but instead, re-evaluate having red meat less often and trying the plant-based substitute to see if you like it. 

At-Home Workouts

A recent example is the Peloton bike commercial. It sparked controversy to some people, but the overall purpose of the commercial is that you can have an enlightening and enjoyable workout at home. Especially during cold, winter months, when biking outside is not very realistic. Using workout DVD videos or going to classes is less common now, more people are signing into YouTube for free workout videos that can be followed at home. 

A newer example of the at-home workout lifestyle is with apps on your smartphone that either show through video or list steps that you can follow to achieve a great workout. These workouts can be done on your lunch break in some cases or in the family room for others. Depending on the weights or equipment needed. This is also a great option for someone who dreads going to workout classes or the gym after a long day at work. If you want to be alone and peacefully workout, simply riding your exercise bike or watching a YouTube video about yoga is becoming the preferred method. Although with certain workouts or the number of weights used, it may not be safe to work out alone. If someone is lifting heavy weights with a poor posture, they can damage their knees and/or back. So, it is important to learn how to safely exercise and lift weights if you are without a partner or spotter. 

Regardless of how your exercise is achieved, what matters is that you are getting exercise. For so many working adults, their reality is coming home from work and then slumping on the couch. While it can be hard to find motivation after a stressful shift, your body is meant to move and stretch. This is especially important for the younger generation of children who seem to be following our bad habits. With their iPad’s and technology, children are getting less exercise than previous generations, but that is a topic for another day.