This past year has been quite a ride for health trends—from debates about seed oils to the rise of wearable tech. As we step into a new year, I spoke with five experts to uncover what we can expect in health and wellness.
A key trend on everyone’s mind is the impact of GLP-1 medications, like Ozempic. Trent Rigby, a consumer analyst, believes these drugs mark a major turning point in how we approach nutrition and fitness. People in the U.S. have started to see a decline in adult obesity rates, and Rigby sees similar changes ahead for Australia, as accessibility to these drugs improves.
By 2030, estimates show that 1.13 billion people worldwide will be obese—up 115% from 2010. In the U.S., about 110% of the population may be on obesity medication. This seems to be driving significant changes across the food, fitness, and wellness industries.
Wearable technology leads the charge in fitness trends for 2026. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, wearables can now track everything from glucose levels to heart rhythm. This advancement supports not just hardcore athletes but also those in rehabilitation or older adults just starting their wellness journeys. Additionally, resistance training is gaining momentum. It’s essential for preventing muscle loss and promoting overall health, especially as more Australians age.
Currently, only 40% of Australians engage in recommended twice-weekly strength training, but experts predict a shift toward prioritizing resistance training. Dr. Tony Boutagy, a strength coach, emphasizes its benefits for bone density and metabolic health. He believes the focus will move away from cardio-centered fitness and toward building muscle and endurance.
Protein is another hot topic. If you thought the protein craze peaked, think again. FoodNavigator predicts an increase in high-protein drinks and items combined with functional ingredients. This trend is fueled in part by obesity drugs, as maintaining muscle mass becomes crucial during weight loss.
Dr. Joanna McMillan notes that while there’s a demand for protein-rich options, it’s important that these additions don’t mislead consumers about what constitutes healthy food. Instead of seeking protein in unfounded sources, focus on whole foods like meat, seafood, eggs, and legumes.
On another front, personalized nutrition is expected to grow. This concept pulls from genetics and microbiomes to tailor diets. Danielle Shine, a dietitian, points out that while the science is still evolving, brands are likely to push these ideas due to financial incentives.
We also can’t ignore the aging population. Expect a rise in “active aging” as Baby Boomers become a target audience in health and wellness markets. Healing through a proactive lifestyle, a focus on functional health, and prevention will be increasingly important. Interestingly, 73% of global consumers now value healthy aging significantly.
Within this framework, mental health is also gaining traction. A recent survey found that 27% of consumers changed their eating habits to manage stress and mental health. Sarah La Roche, CEO of Smiling Mind, stresses the importance of mental fitness—developing skills for better emotional regulation. She anticipates a shift toward integrating daily mental fitness practices, similar to physical exercise.
Overall, 2026 promises exciting advancements in health trends, from medications influencing weight loss to the grand resurgence of resistance training. Emphasizing balanced nutrition, mental endurance, and tailored health strategies could redefine how we approach wellness in the coming year.
