I’m a Crunchy Lifestyle Medicine Doc – What wellness trends am I skipping? Which are worth it?

Written by Dr. Kate McCann
5th August 2026

I’m a lifestyle medicine physician with post-doctoral research in molecular biology and global health… what longevity trends am I skipping? (and counselling my real-life patients against) Let’s save you some €€€€

1. Unregulated peptides. Sorry, just no. I mean, where did it come from and what is in it? And that’s just my first 2 questions, and it can do real harm. 

2. Detoxes – your liver and kidneys got this covered. Anything else is just bad science. And parasites are real – but if you have them, please see a qualified doctor. You will likely need more than a vinegar cleanse.

3. Supermarket influencer fear mongering. If you need nutrition advice, talk to a professional who is accountable for that advice, qualified to give you personal nutrition advice, and helps you build a healthy relationship with food. INDI and CORU dietitians are available in primary care, hospitals, and also often covered on private health insurance plans!

4. Never, ever skip the sun protection. The sun is radiation (because basic science). Radiation causes cancer and accelerates aging. Even if you are sunning… well, parts your neighbours didn’t want to ever see. If you must be crunchy, just opt for a mineral-based suncream adn layer up the other protection like hats, sunglasses, shirts, and shade.

5. You don’t need IV drip bars. There is no scientifically proven benefits, and they can’t detox you. (Note: this has the potential to not be “harmless.” A woman did die from this trend last month in NY.)

6. Take it handy with the creatine. While influencers are promoting emerging evidence – there is still alot of science that isn’t done yet. If you are hopping on this trend: stick to recommended amounts, hydrate well, and never “dry scoop” supplements. If you have any health conditions or are on medication, check with your doctor or registered chemist first.

What longevity trends am I into – The ones back by science!

 

1. I eat real food. Mostly plants. Not too much, no starvation.

2. I do regular physical activity that I love, and make sure I do strength. Bone health, heart health, liver health, brain health – it’s all in. The ultimate supplement.

3. In this house, we prioritise sleep. Bed times, sleep environments, devices down – it’s all important. There is no biohack, supplement, or other substitute for just letting your brain get enough good quality sleep. Your body and body are doing some serious maintenance work while you are sleeping!

4. Switching off is important. No one will set your work-life balance for you. That doesn’t mean it’s easy.

5. Own your tone. Nothing looks as good as healthy feels. Be sun smart. The radiation from the sun promotes aging and causes cancer. Because science.

6. “Viral microdosing” biohack – by exposing myself carefully to very small amounts of purified parts of viruses, I boost my immune system to protect my body from viruses than can cause both diseases and a few of the viruses than can cause cancer. (yes, it’s vaccines. I’m a molecular biologist- I know exactly what’s in vaccines and how they work and I’m more than good with it.)

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