2018 health trends

Out: Turmeric lattes

In: Charcoal juice shots

After seeing countless clips of people brushing their teeth with charcoal or peeling off charcoal face masks, next year we’ll be knocking it back. It has a unique flavour and is lauded by nutritionist-to-the-stars Amelia Freer. She says charcoal juice “binds with toxins to speed their safe elimination from the body” and it rehydrates “more effectively than water”. But don’t start digging out barbecue coals – the charcoal needs to be activated, cold-pressed and cleared for consumption.

Out: Expensive gyms

In: Community workout classes

While swanky gym classes can be fun, the next 12 months will see us thinking of building friendships not just muscles. Smaller classes, where all members commit to a fitness challenge, go to the same class every week and share their experiences via social media and face-to-face contact will be much more popular. “Sharing experiences with others in your community helps gym-goers to find and provide support in training and nutrition,” says Joe Spraggan, a trainer for F45 gyms.

Out: Probiotics

In: Anti-inflammation

Last year, having “friendly” gut bacteria was hot news. This year, we'll be educating ourselves on how to reduce inflammation in our bodies through our diet.

“Inflammation within the body is the root of many illnesses, including IBS and arthritis,” explains nutritionist Sarah Flower. “An anti-inflammatory diet consists of consuming healthy, unprocessed foods and good fats, such as olive oil and avocado, as well as oily fish high in omega-3.” Magnesium also has anti-inflammatory properties, and will be the must-have supplement.

Out: Rehab

In: Prehab

Forget taking time out after an injury, this year we’re expected to mix up our exercise to avoid hurting ourselves in the first place. “Injury is one of the biggest reasons gym-users don’t achieve their goals,” says Joe. “Splitting up the week into resistance and cardio sessions on alternating days can reduce the chances of overloading the body, and expect holistic practices such as yoga and Pilates to grow even more popular.”

Out: Avocado

In: Protein spreads

Avo love is still huge, but there’s a new generation of spreads featuring on our toast. Most – like market leader Grenade’s Carb Killa protein spread – taste like chocolate spreads, but with less sugar and extra protein, so you feel fuller for longer. “There’s been a surge in products that are high in protein and, throughout 2018, this trend will continue to grow,” says nutritionist Liam Mahoney.

Out: Juice detox

In: Digital detox

As a nation, we’re glued to our phones. But this year, it’s predicted that more of us than ever will question our reliance on technology. “A digital detox means taking a certain amount of time away from technology,” explains Dr Meera Joshi, mindfulness expert for Bupa. “It’s important, because our brains haven’t really evolved to cope with information overload. Taking some time out is really beneficial.” A digital detox can help you feel calmer, more productive and sleep better.

For more health, diet and fitness tips, including free membership to Slimming World, pick up this week’s issue of Bella magazine, out now.