At a Glance
- Protein and fiber are essential, but you likely don’t need pricey supplements.
- Skipping fads like 20-step skin routines or IV therapy saves money and hassle.
- Simple habits-walk more, sleep well, and set tech boundaries-lower long-term risk of dementia.
Why it matters: These evidence-based shortcuts help you stick to New Year resolutions without the overwhelm.
New Year resolutions often feel impossible amid a flood of health claims. News Of Los Angeles has sifted through the noise to highlight the simplest, most effective habits for 2026. From diet to skincare, the experts say keep it straightforward.
Protein, Fiber, and Simple Diets
Most people already get enough protein, so the extra-priced supplements are usually unnecessary. While fiber is a key nutrient, the best way to boost intake is through whole foods-fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains-rather than chasing a “fiber-maxxing” trend.
- Consume whole foods: fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains
- Skip expensive protein powders if you’re already meeting protein needs
- Avoid “fiber-maxxing” products; focus on natural sources
Skin Care and Showering Simplified
Dermatologists say a 20-step routine and a $200 serum are overkill. A broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential, even for darker skin, and a single-step shower is usually enough-no double cleansing required.
- Skip the 20-step routine and pricey serums
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
- Keep showers short and simple
Home Workouts with Calisthenics
Calisthenics, the body-weight workout that’s back in vogue, delivers muscle strength and aerobic conditioning without gym equipment. It’s a low-barrier way to build consistency and confidence.
- No gym needed-just bodyweight moves
- Improves strength and aerobic fitness
- Great for beginners to establish routine
Beware of Wellness Fads
Doctors warn that IV therapy, microbiome testing kits, and continuous glucose monitors offer little benefit when a balanced diet suffices. One doctor noted that you’re “pretty much just paying for ‘expensive urine.'”
One doctor said:
> “You’re pretty much just paying for ‘expensive urine.'”
- IV therapy is unnecessary and costly
- Microbiome kits give data doctors can’t act on
- Continuous glucose monitors are unnecessary without diabetes
Return to Basics for Long-Term Health
Simple habits-walking, controlling blood pressure, sleeping, eating slowly, setting tech boundaries, and nurturing relationships-have proven benefits. Research shows they lower the risk of dementia and other health issues.
- Walk more; outdoor time is often prescribed by doctors
- Keep blood pressure under control
- Prioritize sleep for you and your family
- Eat slowly and enjoy meals
- Set boundaries with technology
- Build social networks and show love
Trusted Sources: Your Doctor
With so many conflicting messages, the best first step is to consult a personal doctor. If you can’t see one, avoid relying on Dr. Google and bring a list of written questions to any appointment.
- Ask your doctor about prevention and treatment options
- Bring a written list of questions
- Don’t hesitate to seek clarification
Key Takeaways
- Skip pricey protein and fiber supplements-whole foods work.
- Keep skincare simple; sunscreen is key.
- Calisthenics offers effective, equipment-free workouts.
- Avoid costly IV therapy and other fads.
- Walking, sleep, and tech boundaries reduce long-term risk.
By focusing on these straightforward habits, you can keep your 2026 resolutions realistic and health-boosting without the hype.
Note: The News Of Los Angeles Health and Science Department receives support from the News Of Los Angeles Department of Science Education and the News Of Los Angeles. The News Of Los Angeles is solely responsible for all content.
