04/01/2026
“What are the top lifestyle shifts we’re seeing right now?”
I was recently asked by an international group working on a “Top Trends of 2025” piece to share what I’m seeing in evidence-based lifestyle medicine.
As the new year arrives, many of us feel the familiar pull toward resolutions—often ambitious, often short-lived. What’s striking is that the biggest “trends” aren’t about willpower or perfection, but about intentional living: small, sustainable choices that actually stick.
1) Fewer ultra-processed foods
Not a “perfect” diet—just real food, more often. Higher intake of ultra-processed foods is linked to worse cardiometabolic outcomes and higher mortality (Monteiro et al., BMJ, 2019; Pagliai et al., Nutrients, 2021).
Try adding one less-processed choice daily—an extra vegetable, simple soup, or fruit with nuts.
2) Less alcohol, or more intentional use
This isn’t about abstinence, but awareness. Alcohol is linked to sleep disruption, mood effects, and increased cancer risk (Lancet Oncology, 2021).
Ask: “How do I feel when I drink—and the next day?”
3) Food quality over macro debates
Less “low-carb vs low-fat,” more whole-food patterns. Diet quality matters more than any single macronutrient ratio (Mozaffarian, 2016).
Aim for color, fiber, and satisfaction—not numbers.
4) Exercise as medicine
Movement as support, not self-judgment. Exercise improves outcomes across cancer survivorship, mental health, cognition, and longevity (Friedenreich et al., 2020).
Think dose, not intensity—walking and gentle strength count.
5) Connection as a health intervention
Loneliness is biological, not just emotional. Social isolation is linked to increased mortality (PLoS Medicine, 2015).
Health doesn’t have to be done alone.
A New Year, a more aligned you
Health isn’t built through January resolutions, but through small, repeatable choices—made with kindness.
At Tokyo Cancer Clinic, we support people affected by cancer with personalized cellular immunotherapies and evidence-based lifestyle medicine. Please reach out to learn more.