The immune system rounds out the list of top health trends during COVID
NEW YORK – Nearly half of Americans have become more proactive about their health since 2019. In a recent survey of 2,000 Americans, more than half cited the pandemic as the cause, with a similar number saying they have become more aware of aging and noting their family’s medical history or current health issues.
The past two years have inspired people to try a variety of wellness trends. The number one trend that took hold: immune health supplements (45%), followed by mindful eating (43%), and mindfulness yoga or meditation (40%). Others tried “listening to ASMR videos” or opted for “medicinal cannabis”, “acupuncture” and “Tai Chi”.
Among the most publicized recent innovations in personal care are more personalized nutritional options (50%), home diagnostic tests (43%) and fitness streaming platforms (41%).
Young adults are more interested in health trends
Conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Nature’s Bounty, the survey also found that when it comes to health trends, millennials are extremely likely to be “early adopters”. Eight out of 10 respondents aged 25 to 40 consider themselves well informed about emerging health trends. On the other hand, Generation X between 41 and 56 (63%) and Baby Boomers over 57 (35%) are less likely to follow the latest developments in health.
For most millennials (57%), becoming more proactive meant eating healthier. Forty-six percent of respondents sought wellness support from their doctor or primary care specialist and 43 percent turned to friends or family, more than those who relied on the expertise of bloggers or influencers (36%).
Seven out of 10 have started experimenting with their diet to be healthier at home. This includes adding vitamins or nutritional supplements to the mix (46%) and decreasing their sugar intake (43%).
“As a brand dedicated to health and wellness innovation, it’s great to see people taking a more proactive approach towards the same and adapting their lifestyle and choices,” Saumya says. Mishra, senior director of marketing for Nature’s Bounty, in a statement. “That includes making adjustments to their supplements and diet, trying new fitness routines, and seeking deals from experts they trust.”
Stay upright in colder months
When winter arrives, three out of four people are more aware of their immune health. Most respondents (56%) say their heightened awareness stems from being indoors more often, as well as being exposed to more germs than in the summer.
To support their immune health during the colder months, the top three things respondents usually do are wash their hands more often (57%), get more sleep (56%) and increase their intake of vitamins or in supplements (56%).
“Immune support proves to be a year-round priority for many and we know the important role a healthy immune system plays in being the best, healthiest version of you,” adds Mishra. “Taking immune support supplements, focusing on a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep can make all the difference.”
