Unfortunately, health fads aren’t always for our benefit, and 2019 saw it’s fair share of health and wellness trends. It’s a huge industry, at 4.2 trillion dollars a year, and goes largely unregulated. Here are four health fads I’m encouraging you to keep away from or drop as we enter a new decade.
CBD
This is a big one since so many states have recently legalized cannabis to varying degrees. CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the active ingredients found in the marijuana and hemp plants. Unlike THC, the compound responsible for getting a user ‘high’, CBD is non-psychoactive and has been touted as a cure-all for anything from stress, to insomnia, to muscle soreness. With those looking to make a buck jumping on the bandwagon, CBD has been added to just about anything you can think of – candies, mints, lotions, lattes, or just pure oil. Even our pets have gotten in on the trend with companies offering CBD products designed specifically for them. However, the jury is still out on whether it can do all that companies claim it can.
Vitamin IV Drips
This is a popular trend among celebrities and other various influencers. Nutrients are injected into your arm and have often been used after a night of partying to stave off a hangover. In 2019, IV drips became more of a health trend with proprietors touting better skin and increased energy. However, these are not regulated by the FDA and can be dangerous. So, maybe think twice before letting someone stick an unregulated needle into your arm.
Vaping
This one obviously made headlines due to the drastic rise of dangerous side effects. Many thought e-cigarettes and vapes were safer alternatives to smoking. I’ve reported on many lung illnesses resulting from vaping, and it seems the more sinister side effect could be hiding in plain sight – how this new product is affecting teenagers. And, as we know, the CDC and FDA are investigating thousands of cases of lung disease related to vaping.
Keto Diet
Last, but not least, is the keto diet. This diet was more popular than ever in 2019 by promising better health via ‘ketosis’. The fad claims to achieve this effect through a high-protein, low-carb diet forcing you to burn stored fat as fuel because, well, that’s all that’s left. However, research shows there could be serious health risks and side effects associated with low-carb diets that are high in animal protein. So, while this diet could be beneficial for some – those needing to lose a lot of weight, or are doing so under the supervision of their doctor – it is certainly not for everyone. Especially long-term.
Don’t Believe The Hype
The first thing to remember is don’t believe everything you hear or read. If something sounds too good to be true – it probably is. Before you buy into wellness culture, make sure to do your research. When in doubt, stick to the basics of eating healthy, whole foods; drink lots of water; get a good night’s sleep; and move your body. And, always check with your health professional before starting a new diet or putting yourself on a new health product regimen.
