When “Healthy Habits” Backfire: Trends That May Hurt Your Brain

We all want to make healthier choices — eat well, relax, track our progress. But sometimes, habits promoted as wellness tools sneakily work against us. Some trends have hidden costs, especially when it comes to brain health. Here are four wellness practices we should rethink. 1. Sugary “Health” Foods That Aren’t Really Healthy There are many products marketed as good for you — “superfood” bars, flavored yogurts, energy drinks — but they often hide added sugar. Too much sugar can: • Fuel inflammation in the body and brain • Increase risk of memory loss and cognitive decline • Disrupt insulin and energy regulation When you see “healthy” on a package, read the ingredients. Avoid items with long lists of sugars, syrups, or sweeteners. 2. Unregulated Supplements with Unknown Contents Taking supplements seems like an easy fix when you want extra nutrients or brain support. But the problem is many supplements are not strictly regulated: • Some contain heavy metals like lead or aluminum • Others hide pharmaceuticals or unlisted drugs • Claims they make are often exaggerated or unproven Before taking any supplement, check for third-party verification (NSF, USP) and consult with a healthcare professional. 3. Obsessive Health Tracking & Perfectionism Tracking steps, calories, sleep, heart rate — these can be helpful. But when tracking becomes an obsession: • It increases stress and anxiety over “not doing enough” • It fosters unhealthy comparisons with others • It can lead to rigid, unsustainable habits rather than balance If you notice tracking is causing guilt or obsession, pause and re-evaluate. Use metrics only as guides, not rules. 4. Incense, Scented Candles & Indoor Smoke Lighting candles or incense feels cozy — but the smoke they release can include harmful chemicals: • They emit fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅) that enters the brain • They release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like benzene or formaldehyde • Studies link long-term exposure to impaired cognitive function and brain changes If you love ambiance, opt for unscented beeswax candles, keep burning periods short, and ventilate the room well. Why This Matters When we accept trends without question, we can unintentionally harm the very systems we want to protect — especially our brains. Healthy living isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing the right things, intentionally. Every person’s body is unique. What suits your mind and body may differ from others. Checking research, staying skeptical of oversold promises, and listening to your own experience can keep you safer.