It seems like every year, we are bombarded with health trends coming from every corner of the internet!
Before we head into a new year, let’s look at some of the most controversial health trends of 2022:
1. Psychedelics
Once considered to be illegal and illicit, psychedelics have come to the forefront of mental health interventions in 2022.
Hallucinogenic drugs, such as ketamine and LSD, are being used by medical professionals to treat mental illnesses such as anxiety and addiction.
Of course, this is a controversial health trend as the recreational use of these drugs remains illegal in many countries.
However, micro-dosing substances such as MMDA and psilocybin (magic mushrooms) are proving to be quite effective, and some are on their way to being approved by the FDA as legitimate treatment options.
2. Sound Healing
The science of sound gave us the concept of sound healing in 2022.
But can you really heal yourself by listening to personalized soundscapes, sound baths, and psychoacoustics?
It may all sound a bit new age and is facilitated by an industry that isn’t regulated, but there is some research that suggests that tuning forks can help relieve bone and muscle pain and that singing bowls can reduce blood pressure and improve breathing.
So while the experts are still researching the mechanisms behind the benefits of sound healing, it is possible that certain sounds can possess healing qualities.
3. Gut Health
In 2022, Google searches for “gut health” went up 84% compared to previous years since more and more people are attuning to this health trend.
While this is not a particularly controversial health trend, some experts believe that simply balancing your gut bacteria should not be the only way to ensure overall health.
However, science does support the idea that balancing your gastrointestinal tracts with good and bad bacteria will improve digestion, fight off harmful bacteria, and improve heart and brain health.
4. Vaping
At the top of most people’s wish lists of goals is to stop smoking.
Many people believe that vaping is a healthier alternative to smoking and an effective cessation aid.
While vaping opponents will tell you that none of this is true, there is still not enough long-term research to explore the lasting effects of vaping.
Until we know more, the FDA continues to regulate vaping products to ensure that they, at the very least, are not any more dangerous than smoking cigarettes.
5. Face Exercises
In the past year, skincare has become a priority, but instead of focusing on cleansing, toning, and moisturizing, people started including face exercises in their routine.
Yes, face yoga is a real thing!
Businesses and fitness centers are even offering specialized classes in facial exercises – but do they work?
Yes, and no.
Facial exercises do not work to reduce wrinkles or lose weight, but they can be beneficial when combined with procedures such as fillers and other noninvasive cosmetic interventions.
6. Goop
Everything about Goop is controversial – enough said!
Controversial Health Trends
It seems that every piece of health advice has to be taken with a grain of salt.
Before you jump into a health trend, do your research and learn as much as you can!
