Home/Blog/Health and Wellness Trends in 2022

Health and Wellness Trends in 2022

By Jill Levy

September 9, 2022

Just like with fashion and technology, trends in the health and wellness space come and go. Whether it’s a new fad diet, type of workout, or popular supplement, every year we see the emergence of new and interesting ways to keep us energized, healthy and happy.

What are some health trends to look forward to for the remainder of 2022 into 2023?

Among the top wellness trends for 2022 are innovative supplements that support the gut-brain connection, climate-friendly foods and eating plans, and restorative/fun workouts that cater to mental health.

Here’s what you need to know about the top exercise, supplement, environmental and food trends in 2022 …

Foods & Drinks

1. Blending Diets

You no longer need to adhere to any strict diet rules or labels; this year we’re seeing a ton of individualized diets in the form of mixed eating plans. Some are choosing to combine elements of plant-based diets with Paleo or Keto, while others are focused on climate-friendly ingredients incorporated into an overall “clean eating” plan. 

2. Hibiscus

Long known as an herbal tea that adds a pop of fun pink color to beverages, hibiscus is gaining traction as a source of beneficial antioxidants. This plant provides phytonutrients such as anthocyanins that help fight against free radicals and support a healthy immune system. Not sure how to use hibiscus flowers at home? Try this Hibiscus Berry Refresher.

3. Sea Greens

Move over salmon, cod and tuna, there’s a new group of sustainable seafood that’s grabbing our attention. Edible sea greens, such as kelp and other seaweeds, not only provide valuable nutrients but are also climate change-friendly, give back to the environment by supporting water quality, and they even add an interesting flavor to a variety of meals.

4. Non-alcoholic Drinks (aka “Mocktails”)

The “sober curious” crowd is growing in many parts of the country, increasing the demand for non-alcoholic beverages that are still fun to create and taste delicious.

In need of some ideas for flavorful and also health-minded mocktails? Try this Ginger Turmeric Tonic, Passion Fruit Drink, Watermelon Fresca with Multi Collagen Protein, or Cucumber Limeade Mocktail.

Holistic Health

1. Mind-Body-Gut Connection

Why is “holistic wellness” a trend more than ever? Likely because many people are feeling burnt out and in need of support for both their minds and bodies. We’re seeing more attention placed on the “gut-brain connection” and also the “full body biome,” meaning other parts of the body besides the gut that are composed of trillions of microbes, such as the skin, mouth and genitals.

Some of the most trendy foods and supplements are those that are multifunctional, such as collagen protein, adaptogens like ashwagandha and functional mushrooms, all of which can support healthy gut function, digestion, sleep, mental focus and a positive mindset. 

2. Face as a Representation of Overall Health

Face mapping, an ancient Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Method technique that involves using someone’s pattern of skin issues to assess their overall health, has become more mainstream in 2022. 

Focusing on healthy skin on your jaw? There’s a chance this indicates being a reflection of hormonal health. Focusing on your nose and cheeks? Balanced Inflammation and gut or immune system health may play into that. 

3. Mental Fitness

We already know how important it is to keep our physical bodies in top-top shape. But in our fast-paced, goal-oriented society, what some overlook is the connection between our minds and bodies. 

Just like people do exercises for their muscles and joints, more are starting to prioritize “mental exercises,” rest and relaxation in order to stay sharp and productive. This can come in the form of “mental health days” off from work, staycations to unwind and, of course, things like meditation. 

Superfood-Driven Supplements

1. Matcha (Collagen Matcha and Ancient Elixirs Matcha)

Want to have more energy while also supporting the health of your gut, skin and joints? Most of us do, which is why multifunctional supplements are among the top health trends of 2022. 

When it comes to supporting joint comfort, gut health and skin elasticity while also supplying your body with antioxidants and a lift in energy, look no further than Ancient Nutrition's Collagen Matcha Energizer, which contains 10 types of collagen protein plus phytonutrient-rich matcha green tea. You’ll also find energizing matcha and other superfoods in our Ancient Elixirs Superfood Matcha, which reduces fatigue and promotes mental clarity and concentration.

2. Adaptogens 

Given that they can support a healthy response to stress, mental clarity and restful sleep, adaptogens — such as ashwagandha and functional mushrooms— seem to be sought out more than ever before. 

As one of the most-researched adaptogenic herbs out there, ashwagandha supports healthy energy and helps your body fight the effects of stress. Mushrooms such as cordyceps, reishi and Lion’s mane support nervous system function and promote healthy cellular immune responses and cognitive function.

3. Herbal Cider Vinegar

Drinking apple cider vinegar to help support digestion and detoxification is nothing new, but did you know that when combined with other herbs, apple cider vinegar can also support healthy microbial balance, healthy antioxidant levels and even a healthy weight management along with a healthy diet and lifestyle, including regular exercise?

Our Herbal Cider Vinegar features a powerful blend of apple cider vinegar plus antioxidant-filled superfood ingredients such as goji berry, sumac berry, guava, passionfruit and elderberry fruit. It’s also fermented to help break down the ingredients into more absorbable components. 

4. Bone Broth Protein

Like other protein powders, Bone Broth Protein can help support muscle growth and maintenance, plus keep your appetite in check. But due to its unique supply of collagen and other beneficial compounds (such as  glucosamine, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid), Bone Broth Protein also makes it easier to maintain healthy skin tone, a healthy gut, joint comfort and a normal response to inflammation.

5. Turmeric 

Turmeric is best known for promoting a healthy response to inflammation, which it certainly can help with, but it’s sought out for many other benefits too, such as helping to reduce joint tenderness and discomfort and supporting mobility.

No matter your age, if you're interested in maintaining a healthy inflammation response, consider adding organic turmeric capsules (ideally combined with black pepper to boost absorption) to your daily routine. 

Fitness

1. Walking 

Taking walks outside is certainly nothing new, but with hashtags like #hotgirlwalk trending on social media, walking for physical and mental health is gaining a following. 

What exactly is a “hot girl walk”? It’s when you walk and simultaneously boost your own confidence via uplifting thoughts, such as by thinking about your accomplishments, things you’re feeling grateful for, and ways to tackle upcoming projects. Considering that walking has been shown to fight stress and support cognitive performance, plus contribute to benefits like managing a healthy weight and heart health, this is a trend we hope sticks around.

2. Wearable Tech

Believe it or not, in some countries people have been using wearable fitness trackers since the 1960s. However, they’ve really flooded the market over the past 10 years, with a variety of types now available including rings, watches and more. 

Today’s wearables do much more than track your steps or calories; they can also monitor your sleep patterns, blood oxygen levels and other indicators of overall health.

3. Mini Workouts

Who doesn’t want to get toned and stronger in less than 20 minutes a day? It might seem too good to be true, but “mini workouts” such as cardio circuits and burst-training programs actually tend to be pretty effective.

Some of the most popular fitness trends in 2022 included those that are short but intense, such as brief full-body weight training sessions or body weight circuits that double as cardio workouts.

4. Green Settings/Outdoor Classes

If working out indoors, such as in the gym or fitness studio, is your thing, by all means stick with it. But many of us need an extra dose of motivation to exercise consistently — and taking your workout outside may be the answer. 

For even greater mental health benefits, studies suggest exercising outside can have big payoffs for reducing anxiousness, fatigue and boosting one’s mindset and positivity. 

Climate-Friendly

1. Climatarian/Reducetarian Diets

Climate health has an unmistakable connection to human health, considering that it affects the food and water supply, plus the quality of the air we breathe and even our sleep patterns. As more of us learn about the devastating impact of climate change, we’re making an effort to do our part by cleaning up our diets. 

“Climatarian diets” aren’t necessarily strictly vegan, but they’re plant-based and emphasize seasonal, local sustainable foods — such as veggies, fruits, legumes, seaweeds and whole grains. For those following a reducetarians diet, eating less meat, fish, dairy and eggs is also encouraged. 

2. Regenerative Agriculture

It’s well-known that conventional farming practices harm our soil, can lead to lower nutrient levels in crops, and reduce ecological diversity with the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, fungicides and inhumane livestock practices. All of these practices also increase CO emissions, contributing to climate change. 

As a leading dietary supplement brand, Ancient Nutrition has decided to become part of the solution by creating a pioneering effort in the area of regenerative agriculture. Regenerative agriculture is an approach to farming that aligns with nature; it focuses on topsoil regeneration, increasing biodiversity, improving the water cycle, and producing sustainable, nutrient-rich crops.