
The new year is a time when many try to start new good habits and commit to improving health and wellness.
But resolutions, lofty as they may be, can turn daunting quickly with all the advice and sometimes contradicting information coming at you from news reports, advertisers, influencers, friends and even politicians.
But they don't have to be.
This year, The Associated Press got the downlow on all manner of health and wellness claims and fads. The good news is that the experts mostly say to keep it simple.
As 2026 arrives, here's what you can skip, what you should pay attention to and how to get credible information when you are inevitably faced with more confusing claims next year.
Protein and fiber are important, but you probably don't need to pay more
When it comes to your diet, experts say most people can skip the upcharge. If you're eating enough, you're probably getting enough protein and don't need products that promise some big boost.
And it's true that most people could use more fiber in their diets. But, please, ditch the “fiber-maxxing” trend. Instead, eat whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains.
A good skin care routine is not expensive or complicated
That 20-step skin care routine and $200 serum some TikToker sold you on? Dermatologists say you really don't need it. Stay away from the beef tallow and slather on a good sunscreen instead (yes, even if you have darker skin ), they say.
And the same rule for simplicity applies to that hourlong “everything shower." The best showers are simple and short, dermatologists say, no "double cleansing" required.
There are many simple ways to get that workout in
If the gym and all its equipment feel intimidating, you can drop the illusion that a good workout requires either. This year, the comeback of calisthenics put the focus back on no frills, bodyweight workouts you can do in the comfort of home. Research shows calisthenics helps with muscle strength and aerobic conditioning. You may eventually need weightlifting or other equipment, but it is a great place to start to build consistency and confidence.
Be wary of wellness fads and treatments — they are often too good to be true
Even if you imbibe too much this New Year's Eve, doctors say you can do without “ IV therapy ” which have vitamins you can get more easily and cheaper in pill form — if you even need more, which is unlikely if you have a balanced diet. You're pretty much just paying for “expensive urine,” one doctor said.
Same for “wellness” focused products like microbiome testing kits that generate information that doctors can't actually act on. And if you don't have diabetes, there's scant evidence that you need a continuous glucose monitor.
To improve your health, go back to the basics
The idea of a panacea pill, product or routine can be enticing. But science already knows a lot about how to improve mental and physical health, and they are tried and true:
These lifestyle changes don't just make you feel better in the moment. Research shows they impact your life for years to come, by lowering the risk of dementia and many other health issues.
Don't know who to trust? Start with your doctor
It can be tough to know who to listen to about your health, faced with compelling personal stories on social media from people who swear something worked from them, or clever marketing and advertising from companies that scare you or promise an easy fix.
Doubts have been raised this year about established medicine, including the safety of food dyes, fluoride dental treatments,hepatitis B shot for newborns, and hormone therapies for menopause.
While the medical system is not perfect, your doctor remains the best person to talk to about prevention, health concerns and potential treatments.
If you can't get to a human doctor and turn to Dr. Google instead, be sure to follow these tips and never use it to diagnose yourself. When you do get that doctor's appointment, you can make the most of it by bringing a list of written questions — and don't hesitate to ask for any clarification you need.
___
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
latest_posts
- 1
Miss 'Stranger Things' already? Here's how you can get your Upside Down fix in 2026 with spinoffs, games and more - 2
Geminid meteors streak under green sky | Space photo of the day for Dec. 19, 2025 - 3
Artemis 2 astronauts reveal adorable zero-g indicator 'Rise' | Space photo of the day for March 31, 2026 - 4
Three arrested in Paris after attempted bomb attack outside Bank of America - 5
Step by step instructions to Keep up with Great Hand Cleanliness Before Handshakes
Game theory explains why reasonable parents make vaccine choices that fuel outbreaks
Former IRGC child executioner tells ‘Post’ how he became devout Christian dissident
See the 'amazing' photos of Earth taken on historic Artemis II moon mission
Israel’s mixed messaging on Christmas draws controversy
Flu activity in US could continue to rise for weeks, top CDC epidemiologist says
'All Her Fault' ending explained: The shocking conclusion to the psychological thriller inspired by true events
Tesla plans to expand production at German car plant
Boats escort freed whale away from shallow waters off German coast
Exploring School Life: Self-awareness and Illustrations













