As we step into the new year, it brings forth fresh avenues for wellness trends. Following a year characterized by extensive conversations around mental health, the emergence of COVID variants, and the introduction of weight-loss medications to the market, our attention now shifts towards anticipating the health subjects that will resonate most with consumers in 2024.
To gain insights into potential trends, we consulted experts across various realms within the health and wellness sphere to anticipate the significant developments that might gain momentum in the upcoming year.
The Ozempic “ripple effect”
Experts anticipate a resurgence in weight loss-centered trends in 2024, spurred by the growing mainstream presence of drugs such as Ozempic.
The endorsement of these new weight-loss medications by celebrities played a pivotal role in their ascent. This surge in popularity also seems to have fueled curiosity around supplements making weight-loss claims, like berberine, which is being promoted online as “nature’s Ozempic,” despite lacking substantial supporting evidence.
Frank Jaksch, CEO of the bioactive ingredient company Ayana Bio, anticipates, “Ozempic will continue to have profound effects across food, beverage, and dietary supplement markets in 2024. I foresee an uptick in products incorporating berberine.”
Jaksch further predicts that “snack producers and fast-food chains will pivot toward smaller portions and integrate more nutritious, wholesome ingredients to align with the evolving preferences influenced by Ozempic, capitalizing on the current surge of health-conscious consumers.”
After a period of challenging diet culture and embracing movements like body positivity, there seems to be a perceptible shift in attitudes. According to a recent survey by Forbes Health/OnePoll, the primary New Year’s resolution for 2024 is a return to physical health. The majority of respondents now prioritize fitness, marking a shift from mental health, which previously held the top spot in recent years.
Smart tech takeover
In recent years, a considerable number of Americans have embraced the use of smartwatches as part of their daily routines, utilizing these devices to monitor exercise regimes, track sleep patterns, and capture various health metrics. However, experts anticipate that the year 2024 will mark a significant leap in wearable health technology, elevating these devices to a whole new level.
According to Christine Lemke, co-founder and CEO of the health data company Evidation, this upcoming shift will witness wearable devices and smartwatches transcending their traditional monitoring capabilities. Lemke predicts that these gadgets will incorporate additional screening features, empowering users by alerting them to potential health issues before they evolve into more significant concerns. Emphasizing this transformation, Lemke states, “The functionality of these devices is set to transition from passive monitoring to proactive health management.”
Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to play a pivotal role in this technological evolution. AI, already making notable strides in several health sectors, is anticipated to expand its influence significantly in the coming year.
Lemke foresees a scenario where “second opinions” might originate from computers rather than solely relying on traditional physician consultations. Leveraging the extensive analysis of datasets and advancements in AI, these technological advancements are expected to augment the decision-making process in healthcare, providing comprehensive insights and potential diagnoses. This integration of AI into wearable health tech signifies a transformative era where technology collaborates with healthcare to enhance preventive measures and provide earlier alerts about potential health risks.
Shift to science
While misinformation is anticipated to persist in 2024, experts indicate a growing trend among consumers to conscientiously embrace wellness strategies supported by clinical studies and robust research.
According to Mindbody and ClassPass’s annual prediction report, there will be an increasing demand from consumers for science-based and performance-proven products and services. The report emphasizes that in 2024, consumers will be more discerning, placing importance on research-backed information and expertise when making wellness-related decisions.
This trend is expected to extend to the sphere of wellness-focused social media platforms. Nicholette Leanza, a licensed professional clinical counselor at mental health care company LifeStance Health, highlights the likelihood of heightened awareness regarding social media’s adverse impact on the mental well-being of younger demographics. Leanza predicts a shift among young individuals towards a more discerning approach to consuming mental health content online. Consequently, there may be a move away from non-credentialed influencers, with an increasing reliance on licensed professionals for accurate diagnoses and effective counseling.
Increased focus on social connections
Experts observe a growing inclination towards fostering connections in various forms, whether through in-person therapy sessions or engagement in group sports activities. This resurgence in the quest for connection comes in the wake of years of pandemic-induced isolation that has significantly impacted our mental well-being.
Bob Wright, director of lifestyle education at Hilton Head Health, emphasizes the amplified appreciation for social activities. He notes that isolation amplifies baseline stress and inflammation levels, potentially escalating risks linked to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The recent years’ experience of these isolating symptoms has sparked a yearning for increased opportunities for healthy social interactions.
Teddy Savage, national lead trainer at Planet Fitness, highlights the soaring popularity of pickleball as a prime example of the growing inclination towards social fitness. He accentuates how this activity unites individuals in social settings, offering an enjoyable full-body workout experience. The appeal lies in the fusion of exercise, functional movement, and the inherent social connections formed within community settings, rendering this activity magnetically appealing.
Similarly, Nicholette Leanza, recognizing a surge in demand for in-person therapy sessions, particularly among Gen Z patients, perceives this shift as reflective of a quest for more genuine and engaging therapeutic encounters. Leanza underscores the value of face-to-face interactions in therapeutic settings, foreseeing a continued rise in this trend throughout 2024.
Looking toward longevity
Enduring health trends, such as the emphasis on plant-based diets, prioritizing sleep quality, and nurturing gut health, underscore an ongoing commitment towards prolonged wellness—a trend that experts predict will remain paramount in 2024.
David Chesworth, program director and exercise physiologist at Hilton Head Health, elucidates, “Several upcoming trends will revolve around the themes of longevity and self-care. Longevity, as a concept, continues to dominate discussions and significantly influences emerging trends.” Chesworth notes how many of the prevailing trends in recent years have been accentuated by this overarching focus on longevity.
Beyond nutrition and sleep, individuals are turning to exercise as a means to foster longevity. The report by Mindbody and ClassPass highlights that “almost 30% of consumers engage in exercise to promote a longer and healthier life, with over one-third specifically incorporating strength training for longevity.”
Another vital aspect of self-care and sustained well-being is rest and recovery—an aspect Teddy Savage has observed gaining increased attention. He remarks, “This realm has witnessed a surge, evident in practices like the cold plunge. People are actively seeking innovative methods to rejuvenate their bodies post-exercise and exploring the internal benefits of cold therapy and revitalizing techniques.”
Temperature-based therapies, as highlighted in the report by Mindbody and ClassPass, are on an upward trajectory, particularly the integration of combination treatments—those integrating both hot and cold therapies.
Furthermore, the realm of rest and recovery is expanding into the travel industry through “wellness tourism”—a niche focused on travel experiences tailored to health and well-being.
Chesworth notes, “More individuals are seeking wellness-centric trips encompassing activities such as yoga, breathing exercises, skill enhancement, recreational pursuits, self-care rituals, graceful aging practices, and incorporating joyful, stress-free endeavors.” This shift in travel preferences underscores the growing significance of holistic well-being in the travel sector.