The health trend that is “out” for 2024

Hey there, health enthusiasts! As we step into 2024, it's exciting to envision the trends that will shape the world of health and wellness. One thing I fervently hope we bid farewell to is the era of health and wellness extremism. In my field of functional medicine, I've witnessed some extreme expectations that, frankly, I believe are neither sustainable nor conducive to genuine well-being. So, let's dive into the concept of health extremism and why I believe it's time for a change.

Functional medicine is a realm where clinicians are often known for their dedication to uncovering the root causes of health issues. However, in some cases, this commitment has led to what I'd call health and wellness extremism. Picture this: expecting people to adhere to an autoimmune paleo diet for the rest of their lives, banning coffee and caffeine entirely, and loading up on a whopping 60 supplements a day.

Beyond that, there are recommendations to overhaul entire households, eliminating every possible environmental pollutant, and installing EMF protectors to create an almost sterile living environment. Throw in a daily sauna session, and you have a regimen that, while well-intentioned, can border on extreme and impractical for many.

Here's the problem – this kind of extreme approach doesn't necessarily lead to sustained health improvements. Instead, it can breed disordered thinking around health and wellness. People might feel like failures if they can't adhere to these stringent regimens, creating unnecessary stress and undermining the very goal of achieving holistic well-being.

As we embark on a new year, I'm optimistic that health and wellness extremism will make its way out. True health isn't about radical overhauls and unattainable expectations; it's about creating realistic, sustainable habits that enhance our overall well-being.

At Modern Thyroid Clinic, we believe in a balanced approach, tailoring interventions to individual needs, and making health achievable for everyone. Let's embrace a healthier mindset that focuses on progress, not perfection, and encourages positive changes without the burden of extreme measures!!

‍