As preventive and holistic health practices continue to gain popularity, the world of nutrition and supplements is constantly evolving. From new ingredients to innovative delivery methods, here are some top trends expected to dominate in 2024.

Adaptogenic Herbs

Rather than relying on boring old chemicals and synthetic supplements,more folks are jumping on the natural adaptogenic herb train to take their health to the next level. These powerful plants have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and it's about time they get the recognition they deserve.

Adaptogens like ashwagandha, reishi mushrooms, ginseng, and holy basil are like superheroes for your body, helping you deal with stress and find your Zen.Some brands are even ditching caffeine and turning to adaptogenic herbs for a balanced and sustainable energy boost [1]. No more jittery caffeine crashes or getting high sugar rushes from energy drinks, just pure and natural health benefits.

These amazing herbs come in all shapes and sizes, from capsules to powders to gummies. So why not give them a try and start your journey towards enhanced well-being and vitality? Trust us, you won't be disappointed!

Medicinal Mushroom Supplements

While culinary mushrooms have been enjoyed for their health benefits for ages, people are now turning to species [2] like Lion's Mane, Chaga, Turkey Tails,and Cordyceps for their immune-boosting superpowers, anti-inflammatory effects,potential to fight cancer [3], and mind-boosting abilities [4].

Medicinal mushrooms are even being studied for their gut health and hormone-balancing potential. If you're wondering how to add these not-so-tasty fungi to your diet, you'll be thrilled to know they come in capsules, powders,cooking ingredients, and coffee and tea blends.

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Prebiotics and Probiotics

As research continues to shed light on the vital role of our gut microbiome in physical health, mental health, and brain functioning[5], prebiotics and probiotics are becoming must-have supplements for many folks. Prebiotics, those non-digestible fibers that feed our friendly gut bacteria, team up with probiotics, which pack a punch with live strains of beneficial bacteria. These powerhouses can improve digestion, boost immunity,and even give a mental pick-me-up.

Starch-Polyphenols

While most of us tend to think about carbs as enemies to our waistlines, polyphenol starches [6] are on the rise as an additive to processed foods. These compounds, found in fruits, vegetables,legumes, and grains, have demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may support weight loss efforts.

Research studies have found that polyphenol starches help reduce the digestion of starches and increase the absorption of nutrients [7]. Soon you may find polyphenol-enriched breads, pastas, and snack bars hitting the shelves.

MCT Oil

The ketogenic diet has become quite the trend in recent years, offering a range of potential health benefits like weight loss, better blood sugar control, and increased energy levels. This high-fat, low-carb diet puts your body in a state of ketosis, where it burns fat instead of glucose for fuel.

To take it up a notch, many folks also turn to medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil to support weight loss efforts. For athletes, MCT oil has been proven to enhance performance [8], allowing them to train harder and longer.

Electrolyte Supplement

Many people find that water alone isn't enough for optimal hydration,especially during intense exercise or hot weather conditions. Until recently,Gatorade and other sports drinks dominated the market as the go-to electrolyte supplements.

However, in recent years, more natural alternatives have gained popularity, including coconut water and homemade electrolyte drinks. 2024 maysee an even bigger shift as innovative products like liquid electrolyte shotsand electrolyte-infused water take the lead.

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Ayurvedic Herbs

Ayurveda, an ancient traditional system of medicine from India, is gaining popularity in the Western world. This holistic approach to health focuses on balancing the mind, body, and spirit through natural remedies and practices. As consumers shift toward a more holistic and natural approach to health, Ayurvedic herbs [9] are expected to dominate the supplement market in 2024.

Popular herbs like ashwagandha, turmeric, garlic, ginger, bacopa monnieri, and holy basil (tulsi) offer a range of potential health benefits,including reducing inflammation, boosting immunity, calming the mind, improving cognitive function, reducing oxidative stress, and elevating mood.

Medicinal Foliage Flour

In recent years, there's been a growing interest in using plants and herbs for their medicinal properties. Instead of using whole plants, however,2024 may see the rise of medicinal foliage flour — a concentrated form made from drying and grinding specific leaves and roots.

For example, moringa leaf flour [10] is gaining popularity for its high nutrient content and potential health benefits, such as improving blood sugar control and reducing inflammation. This trend aligns with the growing demand for plant-based products and sustainable living practices.

Menstruation and Menopause Support Products

Women are no longer shying away from discussing their reproductive health and are seeking natural ways to manage menstruation and menopause symptoms. From herbal teas, CBD gummies, and suppositories to supplements,there's a growing demand for natural alternatives to traditional over-the-counter medications. Chasteberry [11], Ginkgo Biloba [12], and Evening Primrose oil [13] are just a few of the herbs that may see an increase in popularity as more women turn to these natural remedies.

Marine-Source Collagen Supplement

Until recently, most of the collagen supplement market has been dominated by bovine and porcine sources. With more research highlighting the benefits of marine-based collagen for skin, joint, and bone health, more companies are turning to sources like fish scales, jellyfish, and sponges.

Marine-based collagen [14] is believed to be more easily absorbed by the body due to its smaller molecular size and higher water solubility. This trend won't only appeal to those following a pescatarianor vegan diet but also to people who are looking into upping their collagen game.

NMN Supplement

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) [15] has gained attention as a potential anti-aging supplement due to its role in cellular metabolism. In the past, nicotinamide riboside (NM) [16] has been the more popular form of vitamin B3 and NAD+ precursors.

However, research has shown NMN to be more effective in raising NAD+levels, leading to a rise in its popularity as an anti-aging and energy-boosting supplement. Although more research is still needed, many folks are already hopping on the NMN train and adding these supplements to their daily routine.

L-Serine Supplement

The amino acid L-serine is like the ultimate superhero for your brain.It swoops in to repair and maintain nerve cells, making sure your brain is firing on all cylinders. It even has the power to create neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and epinephrine. Talk about brain power! But that's not all. L-serine has been shown to work wonders for conditions like epilepsy, Alzheimer's Disease, and other neurological conditions [17]. It's like a brain booster that keeps you sharp as you age. Some studies even suggest that it helps you get some quality shut-eye [18] and keep anxiety at bay [19]. No wonder L-serine supplements are all the rage these days!

Microalgal Omega-3 Supplement

Omega-3 fatty acids are widely known for their heart-healthy perks, but did you know they can also boost joint health and brain function? While the classic omega-3 supplements are made from fish or krill oil, the microalgal-based versions are gaining popularity for being vegan-friendly and sustainable.

Get this, research suggests that microalgal omega-3 may even have a higher bioavailability [20] than fish oil, which often includes heavy metals. So, if you're looking to optimize your health, it's worth considering this attractive option as well.

Colostrum

With the recent awareness of immune health, colostrum is set to make a comeback in 2024. Colostrum is the first milk produced by mammals after giving birth and is rich in immunoglobulins, growth factors, and other beneficial compounds that support the immune system [21]. It's also known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may help with gut health.

Athletes have been using it for years to support their performance and recovery, but now it's gaining attention for its potential benefits in overall immune function. Additionally, many nursing mothers are looking into using colostrum to bridge the gap between breast milk and formula [22] for their babies.

Sleep Gummies

In today's fast-paced and stressful world, getting quality sleep can be a struggle for many. As a result, sleep aids are becoming increasingly popular,with gummies being the latest trend. These chewable supplements usually contain natural ingredients like melatonin [23], chamomile [24], and valerian root [25] to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Not only are they effective, but they're also a fun and tasty way to incorporate sleep support into your daily routine. Plus, with various flavors and formulations available, there's something for everyone.

Vegan Supplements

The demand for vegan products just keeps skyrocketing! And guess what?The supplement industry is totally on board with the trend. Vegans often struggle with getting all the nutrients they need, especially if they follow a strict plant-based diet. Fortunately, there are now more options for vegan supplements than ever before. From plant-based protein powders to multivitamins and omega-3 fatty acids, there's no shortage of choices for vegans looking to support their overall health and well-being.

DTC Supplements

Direct-to-consumer (DTC) supplement brands are gaining popularity at lightning speed, and it's pretty obvious why. These companies cut out the middleman, making it possible to offer kickass supplements at prices that won't break the bank. Plus, they hook you up with personalized recommendations and subscriptions, making it a breeze to keep up with your supplement routine.

With transparency and convenience leading the way, DTC supplement brands are flipping the script in the industry. And to top it off, when combined with telemedicine, they bring healthcare right to your doorstep. It's like having a personal supplement guru right in your pocket.

Weight Control Treatments

For some people, they no longer want to do the hard work of losing weight. And let's be real, sometimes our bodies just don't cooperate with our weight loss efforts. That's why weight control treatments are becoming a popular option for those looking to shed some pounds without sweat and hard work. Ozempic is a usual medication for controlling blood sugar levels.

Ozempic is not labeled as a weight loss drug. However, semaglutide, an active compound in Ozempic, has been found to help people lose weight. The FDA has approved semaglutide for weight loss under another brand name: Wegovy.

This medication helps people achieve significant weight loss without having to drastically change their diet or exercise routine. With more research and development being put into this area, we can expect even more options for effective and convenient weight control treatments soon.

Polyphenol Supplements

Polyphenols are a group of micronutrients found in plant-based foods,such as fruits, vegetables, and even dark chocolate. These powerful compounds have been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health,brain function, and immunity.

As more people turn to plant-based diets for health and environmental reasons, the demand for polyphenol supplements is on the rise. Plus, with their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties [26], these supplements are a great addition to any wellness routine.

Magnesium Supplements

Do you know that because of modern farming practices, the soil we grow our food in is becoming increasingly depleted of essential minerals like magnesium? This means that even with a balanced diet, you may not be getting enough magnesium [27], which plays a vital role in our body's functions. That's where magnesium supplements come in.

These supplements can help improve sleep quality, reduce stress and anxiety, and even relieve muscle cramps. And with more research being conducted on the benefits of magnesium, we can expect to see even more varieties and formulations of these supplements on the market in 2024.

And there you have it, our crystal ball predictions for the hottest nutrition and supplement trends of 2024. Remember, the future of health is always being written, and these star supplements are scribbling away furiously.So, whether you're looking to jazz up your wellness routine, punch up your nutrient intake, or just curious about what the health world has in its pantry,keep an eye on these trends. 2024, here we come, healthier, happier, and stronger.

Sources

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