Wellness trends worth taking into the new year (and some that aren't)

"For decades, public health messaging warned against high-fat dairy. But the argument against it is largely "circumstantial," says Benoit LaMarche, a Canadian food scientist who headed up an evidence review of the relationship between dairy and heart disease risk, published in May. The review concluded that generally speaking, fat-free, low-fat and full-fat dairy products had the same effects. Some studies have even shown the benefits of higher-fat over lower-fat dairy."

"For instance, one study that followed 18 adults for three weeks found drinking whole milk actually outperformed skim milk when it comes to raising HDL, or "good" cholesterol. Moreover, experts are saying that worrying about the fat content in dairy is essentially a distraction from bigger dietary concerns like eating foods with too much salt, refined carbs and sugar. The topic's on the radar since Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. promised to end the "attack on whole milk, cheese and yogurt.""

Many wellness trends surged, blending longstanding practices like cold plunges and protein bars with revived traditions such as embracing full-fat dairy and cooking with beef tallow. Evidence reviews indicate that fat-free, low-fat, and full-fat dairy generally have similar effects on heart disease risk. Some studies suggest higher-fat dairy may raise HDL more than skim milk. Experts caution that fixating on dairy fat content can obscure larger dietary issues, including excessive salt, refined carbohydrates, and added sugars. Social media movements and political statements have fueled renewed interest in whole milk, cheese, and cottage cheese.

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