The new year is a time when many try to start new good habits and commit to improving health and wellness.<\/p>\n
But resolutions, lofty as they may be, can turn daunting quickly with all the advice and sometimes contradicting information coming at you from news reports, advertisers, influencers, friends and even politicians. <\/p>\n
But they don’t have to be. <\/p>\n
This year, The Associated Press got the downlow on all manner of health and wellness claims and fads. The good news is that the experts mostly say to keep it simple.<\/p>\n
As 2026 arrives, here’s what you can skip, what you should pay attention to and how to get credible information when you are inevitably faced with more confusing claims next year.<\/p>\n
When it comes to your diet, experts say most people can skip the upcharge. If you’re eating enough, you’re probably getting enough protein and don’t need products that promise some big boost.<\/p>\n
And it’s true that most people could use more fiber in their diets. But, please, ditch the \u201cfiber-maxxing\u201d trend. Instead, eat whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains.<\/p>\n
That 20-step skin care routine and $200 serum some TikToker sold you on? Dermatologists say you really don’t need it. Stay away from the beef tallow and slather on a good sunscreen instead (yes, even if you have darker skin), they say.<\/p>\n
And the same rule for simplicity applies to that hourlong \u201ceverything shower." The best showers are simple and short, dermatologists say, no "double cleansing" required.<\/p>\n
If the gym and all its equipment feel intimidating, you can drop the illusion that a good workout requires either. This year, the comeback of calisthenics put the focus back on no frills, bodyweight workouts you can do in the comfort of home. Research shows calisthenics helps with muscle strength and aerobic conditioning. You may eventually need weightlifting or other equipment, but it is a great place to start to build consistency and confidence.<\/p>\n
Even if you imbibe too much this New Year’s Eve, doctors say you can do without \u201c IV therapy \u201d which have vitamins you can get more easily and cheaper in pill form \u2014 if you even need more, which is unlikely if you have a balanced diet. You’re pretty much just paying for \u201cexpensive urine,\u201d one doctor said.<\/p>\n
Same for \u201cwellness\u201d focused products like microbiome testing kits that generate information that doctors can’t actually act on. And if you don’t have diabetes, there’s scant evidence that you need a continuous glucose monitor.<\/p>\n
The idea of a panacea pill, product or routine can be enticing. But science already knows a lot about how to improve mental and physical health, and they are tried and true:<\/p>\n
These lifestyle changes don’t just make you feel better in the moment. Research shows they impact your life for years to come, by lowering the risk of dementia and many other health issues.<\/p>\n
It can be tough to know who to listen to about your health, faced with compelling personal stories on social media from people who swear something worked from them, or clever marketing and advertising from companies that scare you or promise an easy fix.<\/p>\n
Doubts have been raised this year about established medicine, including the safety of food dyes, fluoride dental treatments, hepatitis B shot for newborns, and hormone therapies for menopause.<\/p>\n
While the medical system is not perfect, your doctor remains the best person to talk to about prevention, health concerns and potential treatments.<\/p>\n
If you can’t get to a human doctor and turn to Dr. Google instead, be sure to follow these tips and never use it to diagnose yourself. When you do get that doctor’s appointment, you can make the most of it by bringing a list of written questions \u2014 and don’t hesitate to ask for any clarification you need.<\/p>\n
Beauty and wellness businesses are seeing a growing interest in peptide products for everything from injuries to anti-aging\u2013 but they may not be safe. Here\u2019s what you need to know.<\/p>\n
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute\u2019s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.<\/p>\n
Improving your health and wellness in 2026 doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By focusing on simple, tried-and-true methods such as eating whole foods, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep, you can set yourself up for success. Remember to be wary of wellness fads and treatments that seem too good to be true, and always consult with your doctor before making any significant changes to your health routine.<\/p>\n
Q: What are some simple ways to improve my health and wellness?
\nA: Some simple ways to improve your health and wellness include eating whole foods, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and practicing good skin care.
\nQ: Are protein and fiber supplements necessary?
\nA: Most people can get enough protein and fiber from whole foods and do not need supplements.
\nQ: How can I know who to trust for health advice?
\nA: Your doctor is the best person to talk to about prevention, health concerns, and potential treatments. Be wary of wellness fads and treatments that seem too good to be true, and always consult with your doctor before making any significant changes to your health routine.
\nQ: What are some lifestyle changes that can impact my health for years to come?
\nA: Lifestyle changes such as walking more, getting enough sleep, eating slower, and building social networks can impact your health for years to come by lowering the risk of dementia and many other health issues.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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