The first quarter of 2017 is over, and there have been some interesting healthy food trends. Useless carbs, sodium, gluten, and unhealthy trans-fats are top of the list of what’s off the menu. Our Pinterest boards are full of mouthwatering recipes enticing us to cook up a healthy storm. On the other hand, our Instagram feeds have been awash with colorful, delicious-looking dishes that are probably more pleasing to the eye than to the palate.
Healthy foods are recognized as the best way to avoid weight gain, obesity, and expensive procedures, such as plastic surgery and its alternatives required to reverse the effects.
So, what are the top healthy food trends in America today?
1. Low-Alcohol Cocktails
Today’s generation likes its alcohol less, lighter, and with more extras than previous generations. In fact, every year we see an increase in demand for alcohol-free cocktails, also known as mocktails.
2. Sea Veggies
Vegan cooking and vegetarian dishes have been all the rage in healthy food trends for the past few years. The veggie and vegan way of life is now adopting a new sub-sector with seaweed and other nautical greens gaining popularity. Chefs are already trying out new soup and sauce recipes and adding seaweed-derived salts and oils.
3. Ancient Grains
2013 was named “International Quinoa Year” by the UN, and for good reason. Quinoa is a wheat-free full-protein seed and awesome alternative to starchy grains.
In 2017, a few other ancient grains are finding their way onto top chef menus all over the country. Farro, sorghum, and teff are some of the ancient grains recognized for their high fiber and protein content.
4. Plant Waters
Fitness experts all over have been ditching commercial energy drinks for natural alternatives.
Maple water, coconut water, cucumber, artichoke, and cactus are being hailed as the best hydration beverages for the health-conscious fitness nut. They are lower in calories, contain natural sugars and no added sweeteners, and have much lower levels of sodium compared to energy drinks.
5. Probiotic Foods
As research extends in the role of gut health to overall health, fermented foods are fast gaining favor. They are natural probiotics that promote the gut ecosystem necessary for good bacteria to thrive. From 2014, there has been a 50 percent increase in the number of probiotics products and prebiotic supplements. Sales are at an all-time high and indications are they will continue to rise.
6. Anti-Inflammatories
Inflammation is a huge concern for the health conscious. One’s diet, lifestyle, and environment may bring on systemic inflammation. And this may lead to health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, acne, cancer, depression, and autoimmune conditions.
When it comes to foods and ingredients that fight inflammation, turmeric leads the pack. Animal proteins are great sources of healing amino acids and anti-inflammatory fats. Grains containing sorghum, millet, rice, amaranth, and quinoa are great for fighting inflammation.
7. Power Bowls
Bowl foods have been gaining popularity for the last few years, and the trend seems ready to grow further this year. Power combinations of whole grains, veggies, and protein look colorful and appetizing while also adding a powerful mix of vitamins, fiber, and other nutrients.
The trick is to be careful with or completely avoid the additives and flavorings, as these may mess up the healthy trends. Some salads have upwards of 1000 calories per serving, and power bowls could easily go the same route.
8. Biodynamic Food
Organic foods have been trending for the past few years, and now biodynamic foods are taking center stage.
This is a step up from organic foods. Wellness influencers are already talking about how the moon cycles influence crop and animal health. Biodynamic farming has been in practice since the 1920s and solid scientific research proves it produces healthier plants, better eggs, and more nutritious seeds.