Here are the newest health food trends of 2021

Celebrating the end of 2020 felt almost purgative. However, the forced break has helped us all re-evaluate the importance of focusing on our health and well-being.

We can all agree that the last year had put an unprecedented strain on people's lives, affecting them in more ways than one. Nutrition and immunity have never played a bigger role in our lives than right now. Delhi-based child and sports nutritionist, Harlene Bhasin of Harlene'z Health Clinic points out all the important trends to keep in mind this year.

Nutritionist, Harlene Bhasin

Postbiotics

We all may know what prebiotics and probiotics are. Now, let's learn about postbiotics. They are the by-product of the fermentation process that happens in the gut. Simply put, prebiotics is the food, probiotics are the micro-organisms themselves, and when these micro-organisms (probiotics) digest their food (prebiotics) postbiotics are released. Postbiotics show great stability and thus will be a game-changer in Gut health.

Vegan Protein

From our Biology textbooks, we know that proteins act as the building blocks of the body. They help to promote growth, improve energy levels, build strength, repair tissue, and are used in the production of hormones, enzymes and neurotransmitters. Studies have shown that animal-based sources of protein contain unhealthy hormones and antibiotics and dairy-based proteins are a trigger for autoimmune disorders. Whereas plant-based sources of proteins such as quinoa, edamame, amaranth are packed with antioxidants and phytochemicals. Hence 2021 will see a shift towards these sources of protein.

Indian spice box/condiments

Indian curries are loved all over the world because of its rich and spicy flavours. They not only make the food flavourful, but these spices have multiple health benefits that have been studied by researchers across the world with laudable results. For example, the ''golden latte'' or ''turmeric milk'', has taken the world by storm, especially during the ongoing pandemic, as a super immunity booster. However, in India, this has been a home remedy for centuries now. Benefits of Indian spices like cumin seeds, cardamom and cinnamon are also well known around the world, and their importance will continue to grow. 2021 will see a return of the typical Indian spice box owing to its numerous health benefits.

Metabolic health and immunity

Good metabolic health includes having the right levels of blood sugar, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, blood pressure, and waist circumference. Covid-19 has taught us the importance of having a healthy metabolism. Turns out, your immune system acts as a sensor of your metabolic state. When it comes to improving nutrition, don't get lost in the details. Focus on plant-based sources of proteins and slow carbs. Whether you're carrying some extra weight or are lean, metabolic dysfunction can exist. But regardless of where you're at, now will be the best time to improve your health. Incorporating personalised lifestyle changes like timely meals, adequate water intake, regular physical activity over time is the ideal approach to boosting your immunity for life.

Mono diet

Mono diet or single food diet is eating one food or food group. The benefit of following this lifestyle is that the digestive system is rested, the liver and stomach are purified, intestinal transit is regulated, and the kidneys are relieved. The body energy is no longer transferred to digestion but to regeneration. A big trend to watch out for in 2021, the mono diet will gain popularity as a way for instant weight correction.

Long dry fasting

Unlike intermittent fasting where one avoids food, dry fasting entails foregoing food and water for an extended period of time in order to make the body gain its energy from toxins that are naturally present in the body. Essentially dry fasting helps burn out the body's unhealthy toxins and purifies the body. Dry fasting brings you the benefits of improved cognitive function, weight loss, improved cholesterol levels, anti-inflammatory effects, lowered blood pressure and even helps treat diabetes.

Incorporating personalised lifestyle changes like timely meals, adequate water intake, regular physical activity over time is the ideal approach to boosting your immunity for life.