Health Hotline Magazine | January 2025

FOOD AND BEVERAGE TRENDS

We know the importance of limiting sugar and passing on artificial sweeteners for our health, and now we’re becoming more mindful of another dietary concern: the overconsumption of high omega-6 “vegetable” oils like corn, sunflower, and soybean oils. Long hailed as “healthy” alternatives, these oils are anything but healthy. Vegetable oils are high in omega-6 fats, which, when consumed in excess, shifts the body into an inflammatory state, which is associated as an underlying cause of everything from cardiovascular disease and poor mitochondrial function to negatively impacting weight management, skin and joint health, immunity, and brain function and mood. And these oils are ubiquitous—in our homes, in restaurants, in fast food, and in ultra-processed foods—with some sources suggesting that they account for up to 20 percent of the average American’s total calorie intake. In 2025, we will rethink our cooking oils, with a focus on supporting a better balance of omega-6 to omega-3 fats. This means swapping out high omega-6 oils for healthier, traditional fats like extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, lard, and butter or ghee. We’ll also reduce our ultra-processed food intake, increase our intake of anti-inflammatory omega-3 rich foods like wild salmon, sardines, and 100% grass-fed beef, and incorporate fish and algal oil supplements to optimize our omega-3 levels. 1 WE’LL DOUBLE DOWN ON LIMITING HIGH OMEGA-6 OILS IN OUR DIETS Everyone’s buzzing about protein right now. Just check out TikTok, where nearly 1.5 million posts featured the hashtag #protein in August 2024. Protein helps us feel full, balances blood sugar, and curbs cravings, making it key for healthy weight management. It’s also critical for muscle growth, repair, and recovery, which becomes especially imperative as we get older to keep us strong, independent, and physically active. Additionally, neurotransmitters— the chemical messengers used by our brains to process thoughts, feelings, and information—are made out of protein. That’s why, in 2025, we’ll focus on including plenty of protein in each meal (a palm-sized portion is adequate), and because we know quality matters, we will choose humanely raised and sustainably sourced animal proteins, like regeneratively raised and 100% grass-fed beef and antibiotic-free pork, organic poultry, pasture-based eggs, and wild-caught fish. When choosing plant-based protein options like nuts and seeds, beans and legumes, and tempeh and tofu, we’ll make sure it is organic, because we care about leaving a livable planet for future generations. We’ll also incorporate organic and grass-fed protein powders, jerky, meat sticks, and protein bars as delicious and convenient snack options. 2 IT’S ALL ABOUT THE PROTEIN, IN QUANTITY AND QUALITY!

GROCERY AISLES 3

OUR TASTE BUDS WILL GO ON A GLOBAL TOUR IN THE

There’s a growing appetite to experience authentic international flavors and dishes right at home, whether it’s for the thrill of honing our culinary skills, discovering new flavors, or reaping the health benefits of diverse cuisines, many are eager to experiment with global recipes in their own kitchens. Embracing this trend in 2025, grocery aisles will transform into a culinary adventure, offering a world of authentic international flavors right at our fingertips. We’ll spice up organic produce, lentils, grains, and meats with global seasonings like harissa, turmeric, cumin, and Chinese five spice. We’ll savor an array of flavorful sauces, soups, and noodle dishes, including zesty Thai curries, bold and creamy tikka masala, comforting miso soup, and savory ramen. With options ranging from dumplings and sushi to paella, posole, and pad Thai, the variety of dishes to try is endless. The growing selection of ready made, internationally inspired products crafted with good4u SM ingredients will make it easier than ever to experience authentic flavors and cuisines, turning everyday meals into a delightful journey around the globe!

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