At a Glance
- 2026: Experts recommend simple habits over pricey fads.
- Protein & fiber: Eat enough, skip extra charges.
- Skin care: Sunscreen beats a 20-step routine and $200 serum.
- Why it matters: Simple choices save money and cut through confusing trends.
As the new year rolls in, many people set ambitious health goals. A News Of Fort Worth review of wellness trends suggests that keeping things straightforward is the best strategy. From nutrition to skin care, the advice is clear: focus on basics, not buzz.
Simple Nutrition and Skin Care
Protein and fiber are essential, but most people already get enough if they eat a balanced diet. Experts say you don’t need pricey supplements that promise a big protein boost, and for fiber, ditch the fiber-maxxing trend-whole foods like fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains provide the best source. Skin care: sunscreen beats a 20-step routine and $200 serum.
| Category | Simple Advice | Fad |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | Eat a balanced diet | Extra-cost protein products |
| Fiber | Whole foods | Fiber-maxxing trend |
| Skin care | Use sunscreen | 20-step routine, $200 serum |
Workouts Without the Gym
If the gym feels intimidating, bodyweight calisthenics offers a low-friction way to build strength and cardio. Research shows these exercises improve muscle strength and aerobic conditioning. They’re easy to do at home and require no equipment.
- Benefits of calisthenics:
- Builds consistency
- Boosts confidence
- No equipment needed
Beware of Wellness Fads
Doctors warn against expensive IV therapy, microbiome testing kits, and continuous glucose monitors for most people. These treatments often add cost without proven benefit. One doctor said IV therapy is just a pricey way to get vitamins that can be taken in pill form.
Doctor stated:
> 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.
- Common fads to avoid:
- IV therapy
- Microbiome kits
- Continuous glucose monitors
Back to the Basics and Trusting Your Doctor
Walking, sleep, and technology boundaries are foundational to health. Doctors prescribe outdoor time and recommend prioritizing sleep for both patients and their families. Eating slowly and setting tech limits help retrain attention.
- Key basic habits:
- Walk more
- Get enough sleep
- Set tech boundaries
- Eat slowly
When in doubt, your primary doctor is the best guide. If you can’t see a doctor, use Dr. Google cautiously-never diagnose yourself. Bring a list of questions to appointments.
Key Takeaways
- Simple, evidence-based habits reduce long-term risk.
- Avoid pricey fads like IV therapy and microbiome kits.
- Keep your doctor in the loop for personalized guidance.

Simple, evidence-based habits can reduce long-term risk and keep you grounded amid health hype. Stick to the basics, stay skeptical of pricey fads, and keep your doctor in the loop.
The News Of Fort Worth Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

