New, Peculiar Health Food Trends
By Debra Rodzinak
Americans are always looking for a quick fix. The newest and best ingredients have gained popularity recently such as acai, Echinacea, and coconut oil. However, there are some new health food trends that have left some scratching their heads. What are some of these hot new trends?
Astrologically Farmed Eggs
Biodynamic farming is when crops are planted based on the moon phases on self-sufficient land. Chicken farmers have used this thinking to use a moon almanac to birth healthier chickens. These chickens supposedly lay eggs that are extremely delicious. At a 15 cents per egg added cost, time will tell if consumers are willing to pay the extra money for this lunar lunacy.
Blue Majik
Blue food is all the rage. Smurf lattes, blue wine, and Juice Generation’s Holy Water that contains blue-green algae are a few of the popular blue foods taking over the blue food market. Add blue majik to the list.
A good source of chlorophyll, B vitamins, and iron, spirulina is the main ingredient. Claiming to reduce inflammation and support healthy joints, blue majik is pricey at $60 for 30 packets.
Magic Mushrooms
Cordyceps is a different type of fungus that is grown on caterpillar larva. Those in favor of these fabulous fungi claim that they help with oxygen uptake, stamina, recovery, and contains anti-cancer properties. Brigham Young University completed studies that found that the performance of trained cyclists was not improved. With a $30 per 2.4-ounce price tag, you decide if the cost is worth the claims.
Ashwagandha
Indian Ginseng is an adaptogenic herb that is said to lower cortisol levels, fight cancer, and balance thyroid hormones. Some research has been done that suggests the benefits include boosting immunity, adrenal gland support, joint health, and hormone balance, but not enough human testing has been done.
Cannabis
Marijuana has been in the news for medicinal purposes in the past few years. However, it is now gaining popularity in the super herb status. It has been touted to relieve pain, reduce anxiety, and improve athletic performance. Cannabis can be infused into coconut oil, teas, and butter. Some even state that it will help you detox. More studies have been completed on marijuana than any of the other trends listed.
While fun to find and often pricey to buy, it is advisable that much more research is needed on any of the listed new trends before they can be hailed as the newest quick fix to health problems.