With the finish line for the year in close sight, there’s never been a more opportune time to reflect on the most popular health trends of 2023. From digital detoxes to a different way to do dieting, according to Pharmacist and founder of Ultra Nature Sam Megalli, here are the health hacks that so many of us tried-and-tested this year. (Including one he wishes we wouldn’t!)
Mental health goes mainstream
With more than 20 years of experience in the health space, Dr Sam has certainly seen the rise and fall of a number of wellness fads. However one of the most popular health trends of 2023 was a focus on mental health. “I am pleased to see an increased emphasis on mental health and wellbeing, with more awareness and initiatives aimed at reducing stigma around mental health issues,” he says.
This has been evidenced in the growth in meditation and mindfulness practices, as well as the integration of mental health services into overall wellness programs.
Digital detoxing
Alongside the continued growth of digital platforms and apps for health tracking, fitness, and mental well being, as well as the integration of wearables and smart devices to monitor various aspects of health and provide personalised recommendations, Dr Sam suggests that more people than ever are realising the value of regular digital detoxes. “Unplugging is a key component for those seeking a holistic approach to health,” says Dr Sam.
Farwell fad diets
Not a fan of faddy diets, Dr Sam says that the rise of intuitive eating is one of the best approaches one can adopt to ensure a healthy attitude to nutrition. “There has been a move away from restrictive diets and an increasing focus on personalised nutrition plans based on individual needs, genetic factors, and lifestyle. This recognises that different people may have different dietary needs, which is fantastic,” says Dr Sam.
Wellness in the workplace
As more people than ever transition back to office-based work, employers are increasingly taking proactive measures and recognising their responsibility to foster a happy and healthy work environment. This includes providing employees with a spectrum of offerings, ranging from yoga and meditation to alleviate stress, nutrition education to promote healthier eating habits, and programs dedicated to raising awareness about mental health.
Dr Sam recognises that the rise of corporate strategies that continue to make inroads in the quest to ensure we take a holistic approach to health are driven by a range of reasons. “This shift is not only powered by the necessity to retain employees in a competitive job market but also by a growing acknowledgment of the pivotal role workplaces play in the mental and physical wellbeing of their staff,” he says.
“Regardless, I have loved seeing the expansion of workplace wellness programs to support employee health and productivity. As well as the integration of mental health support, fitness initiatives, and stress management programs within corporate settings,” adds Dr Sam.
Supplements step into the spotlight
Dr Sam suggests there has been a surge in the popularity of health supplements - a change that can be attributed to a variety of factors shaping contemporary lifestyles.
“The growing awareness of preventive healthcare and a desire for personalised wellness solutions have also contributed to the rise in popularity of supplements”, he says. “Which can offer a quick and accessible means of filling nutritional gaps, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds that might be lacking in regular diets,” he adds.
The influence of social media, wellness trends, and a general interest in holistic health practices has further fuelled consumer curiosity and adoption of various health-enhancing supplements.
“As people strive for optimal health in the face of modern challenges, the convenience and perceived benefits of health supplements have propelled them into mainstream popularity,” says Dr Sam.
“That’s why so many products in our range have continued to grow in popularity. These include Ultra Nature Sleep & Stress - an all-natural supplement to support healthy sleep, relieve stress and reduce mild anxiety symptoms. And Ultra Nature NR Skin Hair + Energy Capsules - which combine Hyaluronic Acid & NAD+ Precursor and have been shown to deliver amazing results for cell repair skin firmness, hydration and boosting energy.”
Ozempic? Oh no!
Finally, one of Dr Sam’s least favourite fads is the overprescription of weight loss drug Ozempic. “While traditionally meant to treat Type 2 diabetes and obesity, Ozempic continued to be a hot commodity - even among people without those conditions,” he says.
“The rising popularity of this drug, based on recommendations of social media influencers, was concerning, “ says Dr Sam.
Not only did the promise of these drugs (to temporarily turn down appetite, enabling people to eat less without feeling hungry), reduce their availability among patients who genuinely needed them, but they often ignored significant side effects.
“While the average person may lose some body weight, because the injections are designed to be used over the long term, those who stop using them typically gain back the weight they lost. Furthermore, though the drugs are considered safe for the specific populations for which they’re intended, possible side effects include pancreatitis, changes in vision, low blood sugar, and kidney and gallbladder problems, so they’re not meant to be used without proper medical advice, says Dr Sam.