From Ice Baths to Pistachio Lattes

Trends come and go faster than my tolerance for TikTok, but somehow they still manage to find their way into my social feeds and grocery cart. Every week there’s a new “miracle” for health, beauty, or happiness — and usually, it involves something cold, green, or wildly overpriced. I can’t decide whether to embrace these trends or just roll my eyes and pour another cup of coffee. So, let’s take a look at what’s “hot” (and sometimes icy cold) right now.

Health trend
Ice baths, also known as cold water immersion, have been reported to provide several potential benefits, although research is ongoing and more studies are needed to confirm these effects.

Cold water immersion can reduce inflammation and muscle soreness after exercise as it numbs pain receptors. Ice baths constrict blood vessels, which can increase blood flow and promote healing.

Some studies suggest that cold water immersion may boost metabolism and burn calories. It may also stimulate the release of endorphins, which can improve mood and reduce stress.

As for me, I think I will just cool down my shower for my last rinse.

Food trends
Anything pistachio is IN! Stuffed dates, tiramisu, pistachio and honey cheesecake as well as savory items like pistachio crusted fish, savory pistachio butter spread, pistachio pesto.

Dubai chocolate and more. I love pistachios so count me in on this food trend. Starbucks serves a Dubai chocolate drink (not on the menu). To order it, ask for a grande iced matcha latte, add two pumps of pistachio sauce, and top it with chocolate cream cold foam.

And what’s with all the potato chip flavors lately?  Most of them just sound so odd to me ...

Bacon Grilled Cheese
Valentina & Lime
Korean Style Fried ChickenHot Sauce
Wavy Loaded Nachos
Kettle Cooked Cheesy Buffalo Dip
Taste of Thailand Thai-Style Red Curry
India's Magic MasalaTzatziki
Chesapeake Bay Crab Spice
Dill Pickle

Did you know Lay’s has over 200 flavors just in the US?  When I was globe trotting along with my husband (he was working, I was playing) I had to try some local flavored chips every stop we made.  Paprika, Wild Mushroom, Tomato, Ketchup, Puckering Pickled Onion, Honey Butter ... yes, it was a fun hobby and no wonder I have weight issues!

As for me, I prefer unadulterated low salt potato chips. My addiction since childhood.

Whether it’s freezing your body in a tub of ice or eating pistachio-crusted everything, I’ve decided that moderation — and a little common sense — might be the real trend worth following. I’ll stick to my slightly cooler shower, a handful of pistachios, and my beloved low-salt potato chips. Some things never go out of style — especially when they taste like nostalgia.