Is Social Media Influencing Your Health Decisions?
Shanthi Appelo, MS, RD
| 4 min read
By: Shanthi Appelö, registered dietitian and health and wellness spokesperson at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
A search or a single “like” of a health-related post on social media can turn an individual’s feed into a waiting room of targeted content, some of which may be inaccurate or biased.
According to the 2024 Food and Health Survey by the International Food Information Council, two in three Americans trust the food and nutrition content they see on social media. The number of Americans seeing health and nutrition content on social media is increasing, up to 54% in 2024 from 42% in 2023. Gen Z and Millennials see the most content, with more than 70%.
While health content like recipes and workout inspiration can be helpful, it’s a good idea to be mindful of red flags when influencers push products or plans.
What to look for in social media posts about health
Maintaining a healthy life takes knowledge, time and effort, and it’s understandable to want easy answers. This can leave people vulnerable to social media influencers with vast followings, quick videos with easy-to-remember tips and tricks. Here are four things to look for on social media posts about health and nutrition.
Qualifications and credentials
A large following doesn’t mean an influencer has the qualifications and credentials necessary to speak with authority on health and nutrition topics. Influencers who do not have these qualifications may signal through their appearance, language and environment that they have information others do not, which gives them credibility. Influencers may also appear friendly and compassionate, which increases trust and purchases.
You wouldn’t trust a plumber to do your electrical work, and the same concept should apply to your health. When assessing information, look for credentials including registered dietitian for nutrition information and a physical therapist or medical doctor for other fields. Be aware that many online courses may offer bogus credentials. While a self-proclaimed credential such as “holistic nutrition practitioner” may sound reputable, it’s not. Before a person changes their diet or workout routine based on information from social media, they should talk to their primary care physician.
Dramatic claims
Be wary of dramatic claims such as “life-changing,” “toxic” or even “all natural” about foods. These terms have no real meaning and sell the illusion of certainty. If a claim or trend seems too good to be true, check with reputable sources such as a primary care physician or registered dietitian.
While research has shown ultra-processed foods can increase risk of health conditions such as diabetes, most foods are not simply “good” or “bad.” Living a healthy life includes consistent healthy diet and regular exercise, not quick fixes.
Personal experience
Advice based on personal experience does not mean it will be true for another person. Everyone is different. For example, a gluten-free or low-FODMAP diet may work for some, but could contribute to nutrient deficiencies for people who do not need those diets.
Scientific research
Be wary of influencers making strong claims without citing research. Scientific research does not make sweeping claims about foods, but rather, scientists look for associations and connections between foods and health concerns. Correlation is not causation. In a peer-reviewed study, researchers will use words such as “may increase risk of” or “associated with lower occurrences of.” Scientific literature can be difficult to read and understand, so double check information with a physician or organizations such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the American Cancer Society and the American Heart Association.
Supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which means companies and influencers can make untrue or incomplete claims about them and the ingredients. On supplement packaging, look for a label from the NSF or USP to see if the contents have been verified by a third party. Always talk to a primary care physician before starting a new supplement.
Be aware of targeted ads, ad disclosures in posts
Many influencers make money through advertising products. In a post, look in captions to see if there is a disclaimer or “#ad” hashtag indicating the account is being paid to promote the products or services. Even if the posts have positive reviews and recommendations from others, it doesn’t mean the product or claim will work for you.
Influencers may also create a sense of urgency with limited time offers to influence buying decisions.
To manage the information on social media, engage critically with the content. People may also consider limiting the amount of health and nutrition information they see from influencers and instead look for reputable sources.
Shanthi Appelö is a registered dietitian and health and wellness spokesperson at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. For more health, exercise and recipe tips, visit AHealthierMichgian.com.
Image: Getty Images
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