The VIGS Institute, a Vienna-based research institute dedicated to solving global problems in the 21st century, hosted its Health & Wellbeing Symposium on November 3-4. This invite-only event gathered leading experts and practitioners from across the globe, with participants attending in person and some joining online, representing Austria, Argentina, Canada, Colombia, Hungary, Israel, Kenya, Moldova, the US, Ukraine, Spain, and Sweden—the symposium aimed to foster innovative discussions and collaborations across fields centered on advancing well-being and health practices.
A Fresh Perspective on Food, Health, and Movement
The symposium opened with thought-provoking discussions on the evolving role of food in health, focusing on transforming traditional food systems into engines of well-being. Experts from EIT Food and Sweden Foodtech highlighted the potential of new food technologies, stressing the importance of sustainable, nutrient-rich food systems in addressing global health and environmental challenges. Sessions also underscored the need for policies that support these transitions, especially as the Global South emerges as a leader in biodiversity and food innovation.
Building on the theme of well-being, discussions moved to physical health and movement, where researchers and industry leaders presented biomechanics, wearable technologies, and the value of regular physical activity. These innovations aim to support healthier lifestyles and help prevent lifestyle-related diseases, emphasizing the crucial connection between physical movement and overall health.
Exploring Mental Health, Resilience, and the Business of Wellness
The second day’s sessions turned to mental health, stress resilience, and integrative medicine as essential factors in achieving holistic well-being. Presenters from diverse medical and academic backgrounds shared insights into the science of stress resilience, mental health challenges, and the role of innovative therapies in supporting long-term health. With a strong focus on metabolic health, presentations highlighted the growing body of research around brown fat and its potential role in enhancing metabolic health and reducing chronic disease risk.
The symposium also included a dedicated look at the “Silver Economy” and the business side of wellness, with presentations covering investment trends, wellness tourism, and the economic opportunities arising from global aging demographics. Investors and experts shared insights on how the wellness industry is adapting to meet the demands of an aging population and the rise of health-at-home solutions, biomonitoring, and personalized AI-driven wellness applications.
Looking Forward: A Roadmap for Collaborative Innovation
The VIGS Health & Wellbeing Symposium concluded with participants outlining actionable next steps. These include collaborations to advance integrative medicine, preventive health education, and the development of programs within VIGS to promote sustainable health solutions and resilience in the face of global health challenges.
