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Gut Healing is Latest Trend. Does

August 1, 2023

Health and wellness remain important to many Americans despite the COVID-19 pandemic’s end appearing to be far off.

As 2022 begins in the midst of another coronavirus outbreak, health experts anticipate that many people will seek to improve their mental health or relationships with food and alcohol—two areas of health that were severely impacted by the pandemic.

In recent years, the spotlight has increasingly shone on gut health, a topic once relegated to the realm of specialists. From TikTok trends to gourmet food menus, gut-friendly approaches are now omnipresent. But is this merely a passing phase, or is there genuine merit to the gut health hype?

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1.Gut Health

According to researchers from the global health insurance company BUPA, Google searches for “gut health” have increased by 83 percent. According to Country Living, they anticipate that in 2022, more people will be concentrating on it. The phrase “gut health” is not new.

It talks about how the intestinal tract’s good and bad bacteria are balanced. When the gut is in good health, it has a high proportion of beneficial bacteria and immune cells that can fight off pathogens like viruses and fungi in addition to harmful bacteria.

Irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease are two serious conditions that can be brought on by an overabundance of harmful bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. The immune system, the heart, and the brain can all be impacted by poor gut health.

Therefore, better gut health translates to better overall health. The health of the digestive system is significantly influenced by diet. Because of this, experts advise eating a variety of whole foods, fresh fruits, and vegetables, as well as avoiding more processed foods.

Regular exercise and good sleep hygiene are also beneficial for gut health.

2. Keeping Tabs on Mental Health

Throughout the pandemic, there has been a lot of focus on the mental health crisis affecting both adults and children in the U.S. An already serious issue has been made worse by anxiety, stress, financial concerns, and grief over the loss of loved ones.

According to some health experts, in 2022, people will start paying closer attention to their mental health. Mental health will continue to be a priority in 2019, whether it be through maintaining a mood journal, practising relaxing techniques like spending more time in green spaces, or engaging in self-care to lessen stress.

3. Drinking Mindfully

It is impossible to deny the link between excessive alcohol consumption and stress. According to research, people who use alcohol as a coping mechanism for unpleasant feelings are more likely to engage in binge drinking.

Because of this, drinking alcohol with more awareness can be beneficial. The yearly “Dry January” trend emphasises drinking alcohol more deliberately. Every time a person pours a glass of wine or beer, the idea is that they reflect on their motivation for doing so.

It is more important to consume less alcohol than it is to completely stop drinking.

4. Knowledge About Male Fertility

Historically, the woman has been blamed when a couple has had trouble getting pregnant. According to MindBodyGreen, there has, however, been a greater recognition in recent years.

In 2022, according to experts in reproductive health, sperm counts that are declining and other problems that may affect a man’s ability to have children will receive more attention.

5. Sound Therapy

Can certain sounds aid in our recovery? That is the underlying idea of another anticipated trend. The study of how sound is heard and how it affects the body and mind is known as psychoacoustics. According to MindBodyGreen, there is a direct correlation between sound and healing.

Dr. Ilene S. Ruhoy is the founder of the Center for Healing Neurology. It is hypothesised that the vibrations produced by musical instruments or human voice affect a person’s cells or brainwave frequencies to facilitate healing.

More people will be investigating how sounds can affect their health, whether it be through the use of sound baths or artificially produced, personalised soundscapes, according to Ruhoy and others.

6. Vegetarian Diets

As more people try to cut back on their meat consumption, plant-based eating will become more popular in 2022, according to Esmee Williams, vice president of consumer and brand strategy at Dotdash Meredith, who spoke with EatingWell.

According to her, as more people choose to eat healthier and more sustainably, interest in articles and meal plans about plant-based eating increased by 31% in 2021.

7. The Relationship Between Food and the Brain

Additionally, Williams predicted that more people would choose foods that are good for their cognitive health. People who are concerned about their propensity for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease will look for strategies to maintain cognitive function as they age.

According to nutritionists at Harvard Health, fatty fish, berries, and green, leafy vegetables are some of the best foods to eat to increase brain power. However, they stress that the most crucial approach is to maintain a diet that is generally healthy and “includes a lot of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.”

Is Gut Health Just a Trend?

While trending on social media platforms and becoming the buzzword for many wellness influencers, gut health is far from a mere trend. The gut, often referred to as the body’s “second brain,” plays a pivotal role in overall well-being, impacting everything from immunity to mental health.

The Surge of Gut Health Popularity

The rise in gut health’s popularity can be attributed to increased awareness and understanding of the gut’s significance. With increasing research linking gut health to mental well-being, skin health, and even chronic illnesses, it’s no surprise that it’s taking center stage.

TikTok and Gut Health

TikTok, the viral social media platform, has played a crucial role in disseminating information about gut health. From fermented food recipes to the benefits of prebiotics and probiotics, TikTok’s bite-sized videos have made gut health education both accessible and engaging.

Gut-Friendly Foods: A Growing Trend

Kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut, and bone broth—these are just a few items that have seen a meteoric rise in popularity. The trend leans towards natural, fermented, and fiber-rich foods known to promote a healthy gut microbiome.

The Healing Gut

A healthy gut is linked to improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and better nutrient absorption. As the gut heals, individuals often report increased energy, clearer skin, and improved mood.

Threats to Gut Health

Factors weakening gut health include a diet high in processed foods, excessive antibiotic use, chronic stress, and certain medications.

Recognizing a Healing Gut

Improved digestion, reduced bloating, enhanced energy levels, and a stronger immune response are indicative signs that your gut is on the mend.

Who’s Zooming in on Gut Health?

Beyond nutritionists and gastroenterologists, a diverse range of professionals, including mental health experts, dermatologists, and even neurologists, are now emphasizing the importance of gut health.

The Reality of Bad Gut Health

Bad gut health isn’t a fabricated concern. It’s linked to a plethora of issues, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), chronic fatigue, skin issues, and even mental health challenges.

The Lifespan of a Healthy Gut

While there’s no fixed “expiry date” for a healthy gut, with consistent care and a balanced diet, one can maintain optimal gut health indefinitely.

Peeking into 2023: The Next Big Food Trend

While gut health continues to reign supreme, 2023 sees a rise in personalized nutrition—diets tailored to individual genetic makeup and lifestyle, ensuring optimal health and well-being.