5 Popular Health Foods You’ll See Everywhere in 2018

Food trend predictions, according to Philly nutritionists.


When it comes to healthy eating, trends tend to have quite a bit of power. When Atkins became popular, bread was banished. When avocado toast started popping up all over Instagram, it became a go-to for breakfast. When kombucha became the new soda, you could suddenly find it in every grocery store — not just Whole Foods.

So what food trends will be holding court in 2018? We asked Philly’s nutritionists to weigh in on the foods they think will see a resurgence — or remain popular — in the New Year. You might recognize a few of them!

Turmeric

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“It definitely blew up in 2017, but it will remain super trendy throughout 2018. Turmeric is touted as an amazing spice for its anti-inflammatory benefits, and people are really starting to buy into that. We initially saw it just in curry, then Golden Milk Lattes, but now it’s being added to everything (think chocolate, coffee creamer, smoothies). RD tip: Make sure it’s paired with black pepper, which makes the curcumin in turmeric more bioavailable.” — Registered dietitians Liz Smith and Melissa Bailey of Two Hungry Work Wives

Fermented Foods

“Fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickles will remain trendy in 2018. I think we’re just seeing the beginning of this trend! Eating fermented foods helps keeping our gut bacteria happy and improves digestion. Another reason this trend will stay around is the environmental impact. Fermenting is a great way to reduce food waste. Instead of letting all those veggies get bad in the fridge, learn how to pickle and preserve them for a longer time!” — Registered dietitian Amy von Sydow Green

“You now see kimchi on more menus as an additive to things like burgers and certain pork dishes at breweries and some more trendy restaurants, but I’m thinking other forms of pickled/fermented veggies will become even more popular. I add kimchi to things like (mostly) egg white omelets and when I make fish tacos. I even eat it straight out of the jar, I love it! But I think you will start to see more varieties with different types of vegetables and flavorings.” — Registered dietitian Kelly Strogen of Wayne Nutrition.

High-Fat Foods

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“I’ve noticed the Ketogenic diet becoming increasingly popular, and I think that ketogenic and high fat foods will be popular in 2018.” — Registered dietitian Sheena Pradhan of Nutritious Balance

Moringa

Gently transition into the new cooler season with warm, nurturing herbal lattes. Tonic herbs such as Ashwagandha, Maca, and Matcha Green Tea are favorites. Chamomile and Lavender make soothing evening blends as well. Here’s a super simple recipe: · In a tea ball or tea bag, steep 1 ½ – 2 teaspoons dried herb in ½ cup water for 7-10 minutes (depending on how strong you like your lattes · At the same time heat – do not boil – ½ cup milk of your choice · Add honey or sweetener and whisk until it become frothy. NOTE: Some nut milks may not get as frothy. · Add steamed milk to concentrated tea brew and enjoy ————————- #herballatte #falldrinks #howtouseherbs #herbalism #pennherb #wegotanherbforthat #naturesmedicinechest #natureswonderland #pennherbco

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“It has been around in the nutrition world for years and is beginning to grow in popularity; quickly becoming trendy. The full name is moringa oleifera. The leaves are the most nutritious part of the plant, being a significant source of B vitamins, vitamin C, provitamin A as beta-carotene, vitamin K, manganese, and protein, among other essential nutrients. It can be purchased as a green powder, and easily incorporated into any meal or snack! I would advise consumers to find a brand they trust and ensure the ingredients are only the moringa. As with any supplement though, be sure to check with your physician before incorporating it into your daily routine.” — Registered dietitian Emily Pierce of OnPoint Nutrition

“Superfood” Powders

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“In the world of foodies and nutrition, fast and easy is always trending. Superfood powders such as maca root, turmeric, cocoa, or spirulina add an ‘extra boost’ of nutrition, keeping your shakes, smoothie bowls or favorite snacks  full of antioxidants and never boring.— Registered dietitian Theresa Shank of Philly Dietitian

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