4 Expert-Approved Wellness Habits That Are Better Than the Latest Trends

Social media is never short on trendy wellness practices. But just because a health trend circulates online doesn't mean you need to try it. When it comes to your well-being, it's important to stay skeptical and consult your doctor before attempting anything at home.

This year, many viral trends have urged consumers to buy supplements and protein powders that claim to improve gut health, promote sleep, and boost overall wellness—often in place of simple home remedies that can be better for your body and your budget. Ahead, Dr. Kevin Hayavi, medical director and managing partner at Beverly Hills Physicians, shares his expert-approved alternatives to expensive wellness trends that actually deliver results.

Warm Lemon Water in the Morning

Replacing expensive detox drinks with warm lemon water in the morning has become a popular wellness ritual, and one that Hayavi approves of. “The beauty of lemon water is its simplicity,” says Hayavi. “You're getting the same digestive and hydration benefits as those expensive bottled drinks, but for pennies. Warm water is key, as it's gentler on your system first thing in the morning.”

To make this morning elixir, squeeze half a lemon into a glass of warm water. If you like a bit of sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey. According to Hayavi, lemon water helps keep you hydrated, supports digestion, and supplies a small dose of vitamin C. It's also been linked to promoting a clearer skin complexion and higher energy levels.

'Fibremaxxing' With Whole Foods

Eating enough daily fiber has been a popular topic online this past year. Many people resort to supplements, but incorporating whole foods into one's diet is the best approach. “Your body responds better to fiber from whole foods than from processed supplements,” Hayavi explains. “A bowl of oatmeal with berries and chia seeds gives you multiple types of fiber plus nutrients you won't find in a powder.”

When grocery shopping, make sure you're adding beans, oats, chia seeds, and whole grains to your cart. Try swapping your usual go-to snack for fiber-rich options such as apples with almond butter, overnight oats, or a handful of almonds, suggests Hayavi. Making this change will not only save you money by avoiding expensive supplements but it will also support your gut health, aid in weight management, and help regulate blood sugar levels.

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Chia Seeds for Gut Health

Trends on social media, such as eating sea moss gel, and the rise in probiotic-infused drinks have created an urgency for consumers to tend to their gut health and overall digestion. While these trends can help, they're costly. One social media trend that isn't so costly is chia seeds.

Chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, says Hayavi. Chia seeds absorb water and form a gel-like consistency that supports digestion and hydration. To make them easy to consume, soak 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of chia seeds in a glass of water for 10–15 minutes, or stir them into yogurt or oatmeal. Don't eat chia seeds without soaking first, and be sure to drink enough water throughout the day.

“Chia water has been used for centuries, long before TikTok made it trendy,” says Hayavi. “Let the seeds soak for at least 10 minutes so they expand and become easier to digest. You're getting the same gut-health benefits without the markup.”

Optimizing Sleep Without the Gadgets

Getting enough sleep has always been a top priority, and the ways people try to achieve it continue to expand. The trend of focusing on sleep, known as "sleepmaxxing," centers on optimizing rest through environment and routine. From sound machines to supplements, there are plenty of sleep aids and gadgets on the market.

“The most effective sleep improvements don't cost anything,” says Hayavi. “Going to bed at the same time every night and keeping your room cool and dark will do more for your sleep quality than most gadgets on the market.”

Prioritizing sleep is essential for your skin's appearance, mental clarity, immune function, weight management, and stress levels, but that doesn't mean you have to spend a fortune. Try using a sleep mask and turning down your bedroom thermostat a few degrees, along with sticking to a consistent bedtime routine, says Hayavi.