Wellness trends experienced a period of rapid proliferation in 2025, with some demonstrating staying power while others offered a renewed take on older practices. NPR's science desk investigated several of these trends, evaluating their scientific basis and potential health impacts.

One notable trend involved a re-evaluation of full-fat dairy. For many years, public health recommendations cautioned against consuming high-fat dairy products. However, recent research suggests this concern may be unwarranted. Benoit LaMarche, a Canadian food scientist, led an evidence review published in May that examined the relationship between dairy and heart disease risk. According to LaMarche, the argument against full-fat dairy is largely "circumstantial." The review suggested a need to reconsider previous widespread warnings against full-fat dairy consumption.

Other trends observed in 2025 included the continued popularity of practices such as celery juicing, cold plunges, and the consumption of protein bars. Additionally, some individuals embraced older practices like cooking with beef tallow. The NPR report aimed to differentiate between wellness trends supported by scientific evidence and those driven primarily by hype. The original report was published in NPR's Health newsletter.