by Aimee Wojtowecz
The field of nutrition has evolved quickly over the last few years, with new trends emerging regularly. From Paleo, to intermittent fasting, to the carnivore diet, the extremes in the world of nutrition can make what to eat pretty confusing. As we move through 2023, here are the top three nutrition trends that are likely to continue to gain popularity that we can really get behind.
Plant-Based Diets
Plant-based diets have been gaining traction over the past few years, and they are expected to continue being a top trend in 2023. The focus on plant-based foods is mainly driven by the growing concern for the environment, as well as a desire for a healthier lifestyle. Plant-based diets emphasize the consumption of whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. These foods are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which are essential for optimal health. Studies have shown that plant-based diets are associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. With the availability of more plant-based options in restaurants and grocery stores, it is easier than ever to adopt a plant-based diet. Side note, a plant-based diet does not necessarily mean that you need to be 100% vegan either!
Gut Health
Gut health has been a buzzword in the nutrition world, and it is expected to continue being a trend in 2023. The gut microbiome is made up of trillions of bacteria that play a crucial role in our overall health. Poor gut health has been linked to a range of health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases. Gut bacteria are also major factors in your mood and mental health. They can relieve the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, but they might also make them worse.Therefore, there is an increased interest in consuming foods that promote a healthy gut microbiome, such as probiotics and prebiotics. Probiotics are live bacteria that can be found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and kimchi. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that act as food for the good bacteria in the gut. Examples of prebiotic foods include garlic, onions, and bananas.
Personalized Nutrition
Personalized nutrition is a trend that is expected to gain popularity in 2023. The American Nutrition Association proposed the following definition for “personalized nutrition”: “a field that leverages human individuality to drive nutrition strategies that prevent, manage, and treat disease and optimize health.” A trusted source of nutrition advice will be able to help you with a personalized plan that takes into account your habits, preferences and level of physical activity. These nutrition recommendations can help prevent conditions like heart disease, high cholesterol, and other negative health outcomes associated with serious risks. By tailoring nutrition plans to each person’s unique needs, personalized nutrition has the potential to optimize health outcomes and prevent chronic diseases.
The focus on plant-based diets, gut health, and personalized nutrition are all driven by the desire for optimal health and wellbeing. By adopting these “trends” for the long-term, individuals can make informed choices about their nutrition and take control of their health.
Which of the above nutrition trends are you likely to try in 2023?