Baby boomers -- and more men -- have contributed to rising stock prices at these big retailers selling kitchen gadgets to help people eat better.

An article by Bloomberg reports as consumer spending has recovered, more people are buying gadgets like juicers, food dehydrators, high-tech teapots, yogurt makers and baby-food making systems at Macy's, Williams-Sonoma, Target and other stores. A home industry analyst notes driving the trend is that more Americans want tools to help them eat healthier, with baby boomers leading the way. The machines are also drawing more male shoppers to a department traditionally dominated by females.

The products provide big margins, and since 2008 have helped shares of Williams-Sonoma increase six-fold and Macy's quadruple.

Whether they can achieve it or not, almost everyone wants to be healthier and live as long as possible. Concern (some would say anxiety) about being healthier is on the rise and will drive many people to try and cut their risks. So companies that market products that offer shoppers a perceived chance to have fun and get healthier at the same time will see sales grow.