As the year draws to a close and resolutions centered on health and wellness are top of mind for many, experts are cautioning against blindly following the latest social media trends. A growing number of potentially harmful health “hacks” are circulating online, prompting doctors, dietitians, and psychologists to identify habits individuals should abandon in 2026. From obsessive tracking via smartwatches to the allure of restrictive “detoxes,” prioritizing evidence-based practices is crucial for achieving enduring well-being.
As 2025 draws to a close, many are already thinking about New Year’s resolutions – often centered around improving health and wellness. But amidst the flood of health “hacks” circulating on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, it’s crucial to discern fact from fiction. Some popular trends can actually be detrimental to health, increasing stress or even making people sick. Experts are now advising individuals to leave certain habits behind as they head into 2026.
Doctors, dietitians, and psychologists have weighed in on current health trends, and their consensus is clear: many people are taking things too far. From obsessive tracking to excessive protein intake, these are the habits health professionals recommend abandoning as the new year approaches. This is important because adopting evidence-based practices is key to achieving sustainable well-being.
1. The ‘Protein Obsession’
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A walk through a Dutch supermarket reveals the ubiquity of the word “High Protein” on everything from pudding to lemonade.
Why it’s time to let it go:
While protein is essential, more isn’t always better. Experts caution that an excessive focus on protein can come at the expense of other vital nutrients, such as fiber and healthy fats. Furthermore, many “High Protein” products are heavily processed.
The resolution for 2026: Eat a varied diet. A cheese sandwich or a bowl of yogurt is often sufficient.
2. ‘Smartwatch Stress’
We are constantly measuring everything – sleep scores, steps taken, heart rate variability, and calories burned.
Why it’s time to let it go:
Doctors are increasingly seeing patients who no longer trust their own bodies, instead relying solely on data from their wrist-worn devices. If your app indicates poor sleep, you may feel tired even if you woke up feeling refreshed (the nocebo effect). This often creates more stress than health benefits.
The resolution for 2026: Listen to your body, not your wrist.
3. ‘Gut Detoxes’ and Juice Cleanses
After the holidays, a “detox” or “gut reset” can seem like a good idea to flush out toxins.
Why it’s time to let it go:
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that you can “reset” your gut with juice or expensive supplements. In fact, laxatives found in “detox teas” can damage the intestinal wall. Your body already has a perfect detoxification system: your liver and kidneys.
The resolution for 2026: Let your organs do their job and support them with fiber and water, not costly cleanses.
4. The ‘No Days Off’ Mentality
Exercising every day, never resting, and always being “on” appears to be the norm for a fit physique on social media.
Why it’s time to let it go:
Rest isn’t laziness; rest is recovery. Without rest days, muscles cannot grow, and you risk injury and burnout. The idea that you must push yourself every day is unsustainable.
The resolution for 2026: Exercise because it feels good, not as punishment for what you’ve eaten.
5. The Anti-Sunscreen Trend
A dangerous trend on TikTok: influencers claiming sunscreen is carcinogenic and that you should “naturally” burn for vitamin D.
Why it’s time to let it go:
This is medically inaccurate and dangerous. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the Netherlands. Unprotected sun exposure causes DNA damage and premature aging.
The resolution for 2026: Apply, apply, apply. Even in the spring.
In conclusion:
Health in 2026 isn’t about extremes, expensive supplements, or perfection. It’s about balance, using common sense, and being kinder to yourself. Here’s to a happy new year!
Health
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Nutrition Center, Mayo Clinic, KWF
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