What wellness trends will be big in 2024? The Ozempic “ripple effect” and more expert predictions

Health and Wellness Trends to Watch in 2024

A glimpse into the upcoming health trends for a new year. 2023 was full of discussing mental health, the existence of COVID variants and the introduction of weight-loss drugs to the market. The predictions for 2024 in health and wellness are taking center stage for many consumers.

Ozempic may create a ripple effect in the wellness industry. Experts expect a rise in weight loss-focused trends in 2024 due to more available drugs like Ozempic. Celebrities endorsing these new weight-loss drugs have been helpful in promoting their popularity. Supplements making weight-loss claims, such as berberine, are gaining interest as well due to Ozempic’s rising fame.

According to Frank Jaksch, CEO at Ayana Bio, “Ozempic will create even more ripple effects throughout food, beverage and dietary supplement markets in 2024,” while predicting an increase in berberine-containing products. As a result of the latest wave of health-conscious consumers, Jaksch also anticipates a shift towards smaller portion offerings and healthier, wholesome ingredients at fast-food chains and snack makers.

Even after taking strides to move away from diet culture and embracing movements like body positivity, the New Year is seeing a shift back towards physical health. According to a survey by Forbes Health/OnePoll, the majority of respondents cited fitness as a top resolution for 2024, replacing mental health at the top spot for the previous years.

Wearable health technology is expected to reach new heights in 2024. Wearable devices and smartwatches are anticipated to go beyond monitoring and add screening features to detect health issues before they become major concerns. This transition is set to be from a passive to a proactive functionality, as shared by Christime Lemke, the CEO of Evidation. Artificial intelligence will also be a contributing factor with the ability to analyze vast datasets.

Although misinformation is expected to persist, consumers are leaning towards health strategies backed by clinical studies and research. Mindbody and ClassPass predict consumers will increasingly favor science-based, performance-proven products and services in 2024. In wellness-focused social media, an increasing awareness of its negative effects on mental health may lead to a shift away from non-credentialed influencers to licensed professionals for diagnoses and effective counseling.

Following years of pandemic-induced isolation, an increased drive for human connection is being observed in the year ahead. Social activities are now being appreciated on a greater level than before. The demand for engaging in healthy socializing experiences and authentic therapeutic interactions will continue to rise, signaling an increased desire for in-person therapy sessions and participation in group sports.

Some health trends with staying power, such as plant-based eating, sleep health, and gut health, indicate a continued importance placed on living well for longer. The concept of longevity continues to be a popular topic, with many of the trends from the past years being connected to it. Exercise, rest, and recovery are also becoming important, with an increased focus on physical well-being, rest, and recovery, including temperature therapy.

The approach to travel is also evolving with vacation spots now focusing on wellness tourism, combining health and well-being in their offerings. Trips that focus on various health practices and stress-free activities are gaining popularity. The already emerging trends in the wellness sector combined with the increased focus on health and physical fitness seem to point to a greater interest in longer and healthier living for 2024.