Healthy Choices for the Year Ahead: Small Shifts That Feel Good – The start of a new year often brings with it a desire to reset — not with rigid rules or unrealistic goals, but with small, sustainable choices that help us feel better day to day. For me, health has become less about restriction and more about intention: choosing products that are thoughtfully made, kinder to our bodies, and easy to weave into real life.
One of the simplest places to start is hydration. Drinking enough water sounds obvious, yet it’s something many of us struggle with. We’ve been using the Aquaphor Amethyst water filtration jug, and it’s made a noticeable difference. Its compact, understated design fits neatly into the fridge door, meaning chilled, filtered water is always on hand. The water tastes fresher, which naturally encourages better hydration without it feeling like a chore.
There’s also real reassurance in knowing the jug reduces common tap water contaminants such as chlorine and heavy metals, while being BPA-free and recyclable. It’s one of those quiet upgrades that supports healthier habits without demanding attention.
Food choices are another area where small swaps can make a big impact. One discovery I’m particularly excited about is Messy Face, a new spread launching in January 2026. Inspired by the Mediterranean classic Tahin Pekmez, the original is made from just two ingredients: grape molasses and roasted sesame tahini. The result is a smooth, spoonable spread with a naturally caramel-like sweetness that feels indulgent without relying on added sugars or refined ingredients.
It’s wonderfully versatile — spread on toast, stirred into porridge, blended into smoothies or used in home baking — and it aligns perfectly with the growing shift towards fibre-rich, simply sweetened foods. There’s something refreshing about knowing exactly what’s in the jar, and nothing more.
Snacking is often where good intentions unravel, particularly when options feel over-processed or uninspiring. This is where Crunch Corn, from Popcorn Kitchen, genuinely stands out. Created by founder Louise Monk and her team of self-confessed corn obsessives, Crunch Corn feels like a confident evolution of savoury snacking — one that prioritises texture, flavour and quality ingredients.
Made using Peruvian Choclo giant corn, the kernels are noticeably larger and deliver a deeply satisfying crunch that immediately sets them apart from standard snacks. The inspiration came from Mediterranean-style grazing and Spanish bar culture, where simple, well-seasoned snacks take centre stage. Available in Sea Salt, Salt & Vinegar, and Spicy Chilli, they strike that perfect balance between bold flavour and honest simplicity.
What I particularly like is that Crunch Corn feels considered. They’re fibre-rich, HFSS compliant, and come in transparent pouches — no fillers, no ‘snack dust’, just generously roasted kernels that feel like a proper alternative to crisps or increasingly expensive nuts and seeds. They’re ideal for sharing, grazing, or those moments when you want something savoury that actually satisfies.
Drinks are another area where mindful choices matter. Nashi Pear Juice offers an interesting alternative to the usual options, especially for those looking to be more intentional about what they’re drinking without missing out socially. Made from 100% Korean pear juice with no additives or artificial ingredients, it’s rooted in tradition while fitting neatly into modern life.
Founded by two sisters who discovered it overseas, Nashi has become popular on London’s social scene as a cleaner, more considered choice — whether that’s at the pub, after work, or before an early start the next day. Packaged in recyclable cans and available in multipacks, it also works beautifully as a wellness-led gift under £25.
As we move into the year ahead, I’m reminding myself that healthy living doesn’t need to be complicated or restrictive. It’s often about choosing better ingredients, supporting brands with clear values, and making small changes that feel achievable. Filtered water, simpler spreads, more satisfying snacks and cleaner drinks may not sound revolutionary — but together, they create a way of living that feels balanced, nourishing and genuinely enjoyable.
Poppy Watt