Sneak Preview: The Healthy Foods And Drink Trends In 2016

As we get closer to the New Year, we can look back on 2015 — a year filled with grass-fed dairy and meats, gluten-free flours, and bone broth. Changes in food labels and more access to fresh food can only mean one thing: bigger and better health trends for 2016.

Click here for the Top Clean Eating Trends for 2015 slideshow.

We spoke with Taz Bhatia, MD about the benefits of the foods and drinks that are expected to reign in 2016. "Good gut health is the foundation of wellness with approximately 75 percent of the immune system centered in the gut," she said. "Poor digestive health has to do with a lack of diverse range of bacteria in food, which processed foods do not have. These new changes will increase the availability of 'clean foods,' which may prove to be the key in preventing cancer, autoimmutone disease and hormone imbalances."

Cauliflower Rice
According to Dr. Bhatia, cauliflower rice is a natural source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber that replaces the consumption of starchy carbohydrates.

Cinnamon Water
"Cinnamon has many benefits including helping to control insulin levels, decrease blood sugar, suppress appetite, and more," she said.

Floral-Based Cheeses
"Look out for cheeses with flavors like lavender, which has shown to help with digestion," she advised.

Organic Sports Drinks
Dr. Bhatia explained that more and more athletes are looking to maximize their health by choosing beverages low in sugar and artificial ingredients, but still packed with electrolytes. These new sports drinks will leave out the artificial sugars and dyes.

Quark
"Originating in Europe, quark is a highly nutritious dairy product," she said. "Full-fat quark contains double the protein of Greek yogurt. It is also a great source of vitamin K2, which helps to maintain bone strength and protect your arteries from blockages."

"Super" Milk
Apparently regular milk no longer makes the cut. "Thanks to a special filtration process, these new 'super' milks contain 50 percent more 'natural' protein and calcium than regular milk and 30 percent less sugar," she explained.

Vegetable Yogurts
"From carrot [to] tomato to parsnip, veggie-based yogurts packed with vitamins and protein will be the new trend hitting the market next year," she said.

The accompanying slideshow is provided by special contributor Lauren Gordon.