This year’s top food trends are all about going back to basics. Forget fad diets and marketing gimmicks; scientists are encouraging a focus on whole foods and simple strategies for better health. These trends emphasize natural ingredients, mindful eating, and practical adjustments that are sustainable in the long run.
Leading experts from the nutrition company ZOE, Professor Tim Spector and Professor Sarah Berry, shared their top picks for food trends that can make a real difference. Their advice centers around adopting eating habits that are both scientifically backed and easy to maintain. Here’s how you can embrace them for a healthier diet and lifestyle.
Time-restricted eating
Intermittent fasting is here to stay, and time-restricted eating (TRE) is leading the way. This trend involves eating within a specific time window—for example, between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m.—to give your body a break from constant digestion.
Professor Spector said that TRE is a “simple but effective strategy for better health” and that new research shows that finishing meals earlier in the evening can enhance mood and metabolism. Even a 12-hour eating window can boost energy levels and support weight management. If you’re new to this type of meal structuring, start with a schedule that works for you and gradually tighten your eating window.
Cut back on ultra-processed foods
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) make up a shocking 60% of the average American diet. These foods, loaded with additives and industrial ingredients, are linked to serious health risks like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and even cognitive decline.
“Cutting back on UPFs can help reduce metabolic disease and heart disease”, explained Professor Berry. She recommends learning to read food labels and prioritizing minimally processed foods like whole grains, fresh produce, and lean proteins. The less processed, the better. Small swaps, like choosing whole-grain bread over white bread or cooking meals from scratch, can make a big difference.
Try gut-healthy drinks
Americans are trading sugary sodas for gut-friendly alternatives, and it’s a trend worth embracing. Kombucha, water kefir, and unsweetened green tea are gaining popularity for their health benefits.
Professor Berry pointed out that sugary drinks account for 18% of energy intake in the U.S., contributing to issues like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Swapping these for healthier options can reduce disease risk and promote gut health. If you’re unsure where to start, try a kombucha with no added sugar or a refreshing glass of green tea.
Add fiber-rich foods
Fiber is finally getting the attention it deserves. Foods like legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains support gut health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. “Most people consume far more protein than they need”, said Spector.
Instead of obsessing over protein, focus on fiber-rich plant proteins to nourish your gut microbiome and improve overall health. Try adding rye bread, kimchi, or sauerkraut to your meals. These options are rich in fiber and beneficial bacteria, making them a win-win for your digestive health.
2025 is all about simplifying nutrition and focusing on what really matters. As Professor Berry said: “The evidence is clear: the food we eat has a profound impact on our health“. From embracing time-restricted eating to swapping sugary drinks for gut-friendly options, take the advice of the experts and start incorporating these trends into your daily routine.