As the health and wellness sector continues to boom in a post-Covid world, new research is conducted, new industry developments are made, and new health trends continue to emerge. Above all, it is evident that people are prioritising their health and wellness more than ever before.
In a McKinsey survey of roughly 7,500 consumers in six countries, consumers in every market reported a substantial increase in the prioritisation of wellness over the past two to three years. This year, 2023, it is predicted that the prioritisation of health and wellness will only continue to grow, with a number of key trending areas in focus:
Good gut health, a better you
At the centre of overall health and wellness is good gut health and digestive wellness. You may have heard of the gut-brain connection? Part of our body’s nervous system, called the enteric nervous system, is located in our gut. Therefore, when our gut health is disrupted, we may experience heightened feelings of anxiety or stress, and vice versa – when we are very stressed or anxious, we may experience GI symptoms, such as bloating, constipation or diarrhoea.
In a recent blog article, AFPA Fitness further described the growing focus on the importance of gut health due to the strong influence it has on our overall physical health. Here’s what Sasha Aparicio, M.S. said:
“The gut is home to a complex ecosystem of 500 species of bacteria that amount to between 40 and 100 trillion microbial cells. Not only does the flora in the gut produce vitamins, beneficial nutrients, and molecules that sustain the body, but it also controls digestion, metabolism, inflammation, and even cancer risk. When the balance of microbial species in the gut is optimal, the ecosystem works for your health because your wellness is linked to the health of the “good bugs.”
These findings are the reason why gut health has grown so prominent, and will continue to grow into 2023, particularly in the integrative health and medicine industry. By simply changing your diet to include more fibre, less processed foods and increasing your intake of fruits, vegetables and fermented foods – you can transform your physical, mental and emotional health.
Struggle to meet your fibre intake requirements? Our hemp products are a great way to increase your fibre. Add a sprinkle of Raw Hemp Hearts to your salad, or a scoop of Hemp Protein to your smoothie – healthy sources of protein, fats and fibre!
The Rise of Collagen
Collagen supplements are fast growing in popularity within the health and wellness industry, with reports showing that the collagen market is expected to experience compounded annual growth of 5.09% from 2017-2025.
What is collagen? It is an abundant source of protein in the human body, which plays an essential role in the functioning of skin, nails and bones.
As a supplement, collagen’s popularity largely stems from its revitalising and renewing properties, supporting clearer and more youthful looking skin, healthier nails and stronger bones. While collagen is naturally absorbed through your diet from food sources such as poultry, seafood, berries and leafy greens, supplements can assist in elevating the production of collagen further.
Looking to try collagen and seek out the benefits? Our Elixir Collagen is the perfect combination of Marine Collagen, essential nutrients such as Magnesium and Zinc, as well a potent source of antioxidants to help your cells repair and revitalise. If you want to begin feeling more radiant and energised, then this simple once a day powder in water is key!
The move to plant-based
When it comes to protein, plant-based alternatives are becoming more and more mainstream. One of the most dominant examples is the adoption of plant-based milks ie. almond, soy and oat milks, which now account for at least 25% of all barista-made coffees in Australia. Not to mention, the rise in fake ‘meats’ such as Tofurky and facon. CSIRO predicts that the plant-based protein industry will take off to $10 billion by 2030!
The movement is a culmination of new dietary requirements, health choices, as well as an effort to be more sustainable by reducing meat intake.
Are you trying to be more mindful of your meat intake? Perhaps you have made the move to plant-based? No matter where you sit, hemp seeds are a great plant-based source of protein. They are considered a complete source of protein, containing all nine essential amino acids.
Studies have shown that hemp seeds also help with supporting optimal heart health, optimal brain health, and optimal hair health. Want to give hemp seeds a try? Our Natural Raw Hemp Hearts are a choice selection of dehulled hemp seeds 100% grown and cultivated in Australia.
Prioritising Mind and Mood
In 2023, it is predicted that mental and emotional wellness will continue to be emphasised as an important pillar of overall health.
Mental health is becoming less and less stigmatised with health professionals, workplaces and schools encouraging open conversation around mental health topics. As we continue into the year, these conversations and acknowledgement of mental wellness will continue, creating a space for employees, patients and students to pause and think about their emotions and stress levels.
Have you noticed a greater emphasis on mental wellness in your workplace? What actions can you take to ensure your mental health is a priority this year?
If you’re needing some support, we do encourage you to reach out. Whether it be to a friend or loved one, a professional, or a helpline such as BeyondBlue and Lifeline. Your mental health matters and there is always support for you.
Saying yes tech to support your health and fitness routine
Throughout COVID, when isolation became the new norm and people were forced to adopt remote-friendly workouts, the use of workout apps increased dramatically. At the same time, meditation and mindfulness apps also became increasingly popular.
This instigated a movement towards the incorporation of technology into health and wellness routines. You can now simply jump on an app and do a 20-minute workout in your living room (or anywhere and at any time!), or you can take 10 minutes before bed to do a quick meditation to relax you into a more peaceful sleep. Apps truly have made health and wellness activities accessible.
Similarly, Apple watches, smart watches and fitness trackers are also allowing people to monitor their health and wellness through 24/7 monitoring of pulse rate, breathing, stress levels, fitness activity and sleep quality. In a digital world, it is inevitable that technology will continue to become an incorporated part of health and wellness routines.
Opting for sustainable foods
As climate change continues to be a topic of conversation, impacting all areas of life, consumers are being encouraged to find ways to contribute positively to the environment. This includes a greater focus on more sustainable actions, adopting habits that support a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
In 2020, new research found that 9 in 10 Australians are more likely to purchase sustainable products, with the survey also revealing that 85% of consumers want retailers and brands to be more transparent about the sustainability of their products. This desire from consumers has only continued to grow over the last two years, which has resulted in brands making sustainability a strong focus for 2023.
Wanting a little inspo for how you can be more sustainable when it comes to food sustainability? Meal planning is just one way in which you can be more eco conscious when it comes to reducing food wastage, as well as eating locally and seasonally.
More rest, less burnout
2023 is the year of putting REST first.
Perhaps one of the best things we can do for our bodies is LISTEN to what it needs. Some days we may wake up with bounds of energy, motivated and energised for a HIIT workout or a long distance run. Some days we may wake up exhausted and stressed, overwhelmed with work or personal circumstances. On these days, it is important to take it easy and avoid stressing out the body more. Try taking a walk or doing some lower intensity movement such as pilates or yoga.
Being over-stressed and pushing yourself too hard will eventually lead to compromised health, such as headaches, poor mental health and being unable to sleep. So most importantly, in 2023, one of the biggest health trends is to prioritise taking time to rest when it is needed.
After all, how can we be the best version of ourselves if we are burnt out and exhausted? Rest is essential.
How will you schedule in time to reset and recover this year?
Here at Hemponics we strive to help our customers meet their personal goals, placing a big focus on physical and mental wellbeing. We have an immense desire to see human health improve and believe that hemp has many of the health benefits and applications that can inspire change.
Let us help you to achieve your health goals. Browse our products online, have a read of our blogs or give us a call and let’s have a chat about how we can meet your specific needs. Taking into account these emerging trends, what actions will you be taking to improve your health this year?
