Can Christmas lights or heat lamps truly mimic the effects of red light therapy (RLT)? Is magnesium a crucial component for our health? And what exactly does the term “underconsumption core” mean? These are some questions we aim to explore.
It’s fair to say that the pursuit of wellness is a common goal for many of us, with the ultimate aim being to feel good—or at the very least, not feel bad. The fundamentals for achieving this are fairly well understood: maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, ensuring adequate sleep, managing stress effectively, and fostering meaningful relationships. Yet, these essentials often take a backseat to more sensational wellness trends.
Every year, a wave of new health and wellness trends emerges, with many simply being revamped versions of older ideas. This year is no different, featuring a range of topics from red light therapy to magnesium, raw milk, and beyond—some of which spark genuine curiosity, while others may warrant a bit of skepticism.
**Red Light Therapy**
Red light therapy has transitioned from in-office treatments to at-home devices, with claims centered around benefits like reducing wrinkles, healing acne, and promoting hair growth. However, Dr. Prem Tripathi, a facial plastic surgeon based in California, urges caution. “There’s a limit to the benefits these devices can provide,” he notes, suggesting they should be viewed as supplementary tools rather than primary solutions. He also warns against experimenting with red Christmas lights or heat lamps promoted on social media, advising to choose products from reputable brands that have demonstrated effectiveness.
**Magnesium**
On social media platforms like TikTok, magnesium has emerged as a buzzword, with many asserting its anxiety-relieving properties. This essential mineral is vital for numerous bodily functions, and some emerging research backs its calming effects. However, experts agree that further comprehensive studies are needed. Incorporating magnesium-rich foods such as salmon, avocados, and beans into your diet is generally safe, but it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplements. As one researcher put it, “Like other interventions, magnesium isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.”
**Raw Milk**
The trend surrounding raw milk has been gaining momentum, with supporters claiming it has superior vitamin and mineral content compared to pasteurized versions. However, the CDC disputes these assertions, and food safety experts highlight the increased risk of illness that comes with raw milk consumption. Dr. Marion Nestle from New York University cautions, “The chances of getting sick from raw milk far exceed those from pasteurized options.”
**At-Home Microbiome Testing Kits**
You’ve likely encountered advertisements for at-home microbiome testing kits flooding social media, promising personalized diet recommendations based on stool samples. While the gut microbiome is indeed crucial for overall health, many professionals caution against drawing overreaching conclusions from microbiome data, suggesting these kits are more suited for targeted diagnostic purposes rather than broad dietary guidance.
**Aura Points**
A playful trend on TikTok involves calculating one’s “aura points,” which reflects perceived energy and charm. Alaina Demopoulos explains that participants often adopt a self-assured demeanor while steering clear of behaviors that might be seen as awkward. While largely humorous, this trend does tap into deeper philosophical themes and serves as a commentary on social dynamics today.
**Psychedelics for Mental Health**
Research on the mental health benefits of psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin is ongoing, with potential implications for conditions such as depression and PTSD. However, the recent FDA rejection of MDMA-assisted therapy underscores the complexities at play. Founders of Cardea, Ross Ellenhorn and Dimitri Mugianis, argue that framing psychedelics solely as medications might overshadow their true potential as experiential tools.
**Underconsumption Core**
A growing movement on TikTok revolves around “underconsumption core,” which challenges consumerism by promoting strategies like reusing and upcycling. While some critics view this as merely reflecting typical lifestyles, the underlying message of minimizing waste is largely positive, albeit intertwined with various socioeconomic factors.
**Skincare for Kids**
The skincare market is expanding, particularly among Gen Alpha, with children as young as nine showing interest in sophisticated routines. Experts warn, though, that this could negatively impact children’s mental health and skin health, pointing out that most preteens don’t need advanced products—using them might lead to irritation and other skin issues.
**Digital Detoxing**
As smartphones dominate daily life, many are reassessing their technology dependence. Digital detoxes and the shift to “dumb phones” have gained popularity, especially in schools that have banned smartphones, yielding impressive results. The Guardian’s “Reclaim Your Brain” initiative has seen significant engagement, with participants reporting reduced screen time.
**Voluntary Celibacy and Egg Freezing**
The idea of voluntary celibacy is gaining traction, with personalities like Julia Fox noting a shift in cultural attitudes amid what some call a “sex recession.” Simultaneously, egg freezing is becoming more common as individuals look to have more control over their reproductive choices. Nonetheless, prospective parents should keep in mind that egg freezing doesn’t guarantee future successful pregnancies.
Navigating these trends requires us to stay informed and discerning about what genuinely contributes to our health and well-being.
