From intermittent fasting and meditation apps to new wellness trends predicted for 2024, what health trends are actually worth trying?

We’re calling on the experts to give us their verdict — here's what Erlanger physicians have to say about these trending health topics:

Mediterranean Diet

The trend: The Mediterranean Diet emphasizes whole foods, healthy fats, lean proteins, veggies, and complex carbs. Much of the diet is based on foods eaten in countries like Greece, Spain, and Italy.

Why it’s popular: The Mediterranean Diet was named the healthiest way to eat — for the sixth year in a row. Nutrition specialists have cited a number of benefits from following the principles of the diet, like heart, bone + joint health.

The verdict: Erlanger Cardiologist Jennifer Mirza, DO, says the Mediterranean Diet can be a great guide for optimizing eating habits. The biggest takeaway is that you’re eating less processed foods and increasing veggies + heart-healthy proteins and food sources.

Bonus: Ready to give this fresh-focused eating a try? Our local recs include Mediterranean-inspired Massey’s Kitchen or Levantine restaurant (think: Mediterranean meets Middle Eastern) Calliope.

Health wearables

The trend: More than 30% of people in the US use wearable health technology (think: brands like Fitbit and Oura Ring). People use these devices for many reasons, from tracking step count to monitoring sleep quality.

Why it’s popular: Health wearables can track your health in real time and provide total body data + personalized health recommendations. For many, it’s like having a health advisor and fitness coach accessible at all times.

The verdict: Erlanger sports medicine physician William Hunter Garrett, MD, owns two devices himself and says they are great for anyone serious about their activity levels and recovery, or interested in how things like caffeine and exercise impact their daily routine.

Another pro: Health wearables can provide real-time data that can alert users of heart issues or first responders of falls or car accidents.

Wondering what other health trends are worth trying? Talk to an Erlanger doctor for expert advice.