Debunking Gen Z health foods and drinks

Health-conscious Brits are being given top tips on which Gen Z health foods and drinks are worth the hype and which ones to avoid.

Health and nutrition experts at Prepped Pots powered by MuscleFood.com have looked at health trends on social media and pinpointed the ones that are actually beneficial.

Gen Z is a generation that values health and wellness and their food choices are significantly impacted by social media.

There are many foods and drinks making the rounds on social media, especially Tiktok, promising various health benefits including improved gut health, weight loss and clearer skin.

Matcha, powdered greens, kimchi and bone broth have been some of the latest health obsessions on social media, reaching millions of users and causing products to sell out in stores.

However, some products marketed as healthy may be misleading and might still contain high amounts of added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients.

While social media can be a source of inspiration, it’s essential to approach healthy food trends with a critical mindset, as a lot of the content on social media is not created by experts.

Ashleigh Tosh from Prepped Pots powered by MuscleFood.com said: “While some viral health foods offer benefits, others are hyped up without scientific evidence, so it’s important to do your research before jumping on the bandwagon.

“What works for one person might not work for another, so you should prioritise your individual health needs and well-being over the pressure to follow every trend.

“It’s important to keep in mind that social media videos are short and may not provide comprehensive information, plus they’re often created by users who don’t have sufficient knowledge on the subject.”

Here are some of the most popular Gen Z health foods and drinks rated by the team at Prepped Pots powered by MuscleFood.com:

1. Matcha

 Matcha is a caffeine trend taking over coffee shop menus and making waves on social media. Matcha’s so popular because it’s packed with health-improving antioxidants and it’s considered to provide a more sustained caffeine boost without the jitters often associated with other sources of caffeine. On the other hand, matcha can be quite expensive and time-consuming to make. Consumers should also be mindful of “fake” matcha products which have little in common with the traditional matcha tea leaves.

2. Powdered greens

 Powdered greens are dietary supplements that have gained popularity due to their health benefits and convenience. The powders are supposed to help reduce bloating, improve gut health and clear acne. They provide an easy way to increase your nutrient intake, especially if you have a busy lifestyle. However, it’s important to remember that these supplements should not be used as a complete replacement for vegetables. 

3. Kimchi

 Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish made from fermented vegetables and it has a unique taste which appeals to people who enjoy spicy and vibrant flavours. This superfood is renowned for its health benefits and is gaining popularity as Brits are looking to add immune-boosting foods to their diets. The probiotics in kimchi improve gut health and digestion, so if you’re open to trying new foods and flavours then kimchi can be the perfect health kick for your diet.

4. Bone broth

 Bone broth is gaining popularity as influencers, celebrities, and fitness gurus praise its benefits for well-being and weight loss. Bone broth is a clear nutrient-dense soup and is hailed for its immune-boosting, anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory properties. Although it has many health benefits, bone broth on its own doesn’t count as a meal because of its low amount of calories. Bone broth is a good addition to an overall healthy diet and can be consumed as a base for soups, stews and sauces or as a drink in between meals.

5. Seaweed snacks

Available as crisps, sheets or used inside different products, seaweed snacks are skyrocketing in popularity. Seaweed snacks are often low in calories and fat, making them a healthier alternative compared to more traditional snack choices. Seaweed is also a great source of vitamins and is packed with minerals like iodine which can support thyroid function. Having seaweed snacks in moderation will contribute to a healthy diet.

6. Acai bowls

 Although Acai bowls look and taste great, and are technically supposed to be good for your health, they can also be high in calories and sugar. If an Acai bowl is made with juice and other fruit and then heavily topped with sugary toppings like granola, coconut flakes and honey, then it’ll take away from the health benefits that the nutritious Acai berry provides. It’s fine to have Acai bowls from time to time, however people should be mindful of the amount of sugar per serving.

7. Kombucha

 Kombucha is a trendy tea drink that has surged in popularity after being praised all over social media for its gut healing powers. As a product of fermentation, kombucha is brimmed with probiotics, amino acids, and antioxidants, which all improve digestion, gut health and the immune system. Kombucha has a unique flavour profile which may not be everyone’s cup of tea, however, if you acquire a taste for it then it’s a great way to boost your health while sipping on a delicious beverage.