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TikTok, the web’s most popular app, was originally focused on lip-syncing videos, then viral dance routines. Tutorials and parodies followed. Now, health and wellness advice are surging. A 2024 survey found that more than 50 percent of Gen Z are
using TikTok for health advice, with one in three citing TikTok as their main source of health information.
The TikRok advice on tap runs the gamut from sound, bite-sized bits of responsible nutrition guidance to wacky and even dangerous fads. I’m talking to you, eating an entire orange with its peel topped cayenne pepper and cinnamon to have an instant bowel movement. Many of these fads can be toxic to health. For example, please don’t try eating a whole orange at home—the peel can irritate the stomach lining.
Spotting trustworthy wellness influencers amid the noise
Not all health-related information on social media is this misleading. Many qualified health professionals share reliable, science-based advice to encourage healthier lifestyles. But while engaging with wellness trends on social media can be enjoyable, it’s crucial to recognize that much of the content is consumer-driven, designed to drive wellness industry sales rather than provide sound advice.
To avoid being taken advantage of, make informed decisions regarding credibility and do your due diligence. Here are eight things to evaluate when looking for reliable wellness advice.
Credential check
When browsing wellness content online, it's important to verify the creator’s credentials and experience before accepting their advice hook, line and sinker. Titles like "nutritionist" or "lifestyle coach" can be self-appointed, whereas certifications such as Registered Dietitian (RD) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) actually demonstrate higher levels of education.
Reality check: Look for formal education or certifications in relevant fields like nutrition, fitness, psychology or healthcare. Beware of influencers with vague or nonexistent qualifications.
Be suspicious of thinspiration
Is the “fitfluencer” merely doling out dieting advice in disguise? A 2023 study found that nearly two-thirds of the 100 most popular
fitfluencers posted messages that were skewed to thinness, such as promoting exercise as a tool to become skinnier. Much of fitfluencer content is thinspiration in disguise. Wellness culture is often the culprit behind unattainable health goals and unhealthy standards. If an influencer creates a sense of body shame in you, you might want to unfollow.
Reality check: When deciding who to admit in your feed, ask yourself this one question: Does this fitness influencer make you feel good in your own skin?
Evidence-based content
Trusting wellness influencers can be tricky because their advice may be based on personal experience rather than scientific evidence. Do they cite credible sources, studies or guidelines from reputable organizations (e.g., World Health Organization, CDC)? Be cautious if their advice lacks scientific backing or is overly anecdotal.
It’s not that their own personal experience in invalid, but it’s not proven enough to be applicable to a more general population. A 2022 study found that of eight Instagram accounts with more than 30,000 followers, a total of 494 health claims were closely examined. Over half of the 494
health claims had no evidence available.
Reality check: Scientific studies can also provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of wellness trends. Look for a body of research, i.e. many studies, that backs up a trend, not a single study.
Transparency
When an interesting claim shows up in your feed, look at who created it. Do they disclose partnerships, sponsorships or affiliate links? Transparency about financial interests is a good sign. Wellness influencers continuously promote ineffective products for their own gain, such as vitamin supplements, they claim can prevent, treat or cure cancer.
Reality check: Be skeptical of influencers pushing products as “miracle cures” without sharing potential risks or limitations.
Consistency
It’s helpful to consider the longevity of certain practices to distinguish between fleeting trends and evidence-based recommendations. Always consult a healthcare professional before trying new supplements or diets, such as the carnivore diet. Medical advice should come from trusted providers, not influencers on TikTok.
Reality check: The probability of false information is rather high in the influencer sphere. Many influencers are hustling for sales and will use gimmicky claims to lure people into unnecessary supplements or workout plans.
Balanced Perspective
Unfortunately, wellness culture often promotes rigid ideals, which can detract from the importance of balance and lead to harmful practices. Wellness isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach but rather a personalized process shaped by individual genetics, lifestyle and goals. Building a sustainable and enjoyable routine tailored to your specific needs is far more beneficial trying every new life-changing trend that pops up. Put your trust in those who acknowledge the complexity of health and wellness rather than oversimplifying it.
Reality check: Watch out for individuals who claim their methods are the “only way” or demonize mainstream approaches.
Defensive or receptive?
Look for influencers who check reviews, comments and feedback from their audience. Do they respond respectfully to constructive criticism or inquiries? A good sign is if they are open to learning and acknowledge when they’ve made mistakes or overlooked something. Credible influencers view feedback as an opportunity to improve and engage meaningfully with their audience.
Reality check: Proceed with caution if your influencer of choice becomes defensive, dismissive, or even hostile when confronted with criticism, signaling a lack of willingness to grow or accept accountability.
Go with your gut
As you scroll through social media, be on the lookout for unrealistic advice or nutrition secrets that sound too good to be true. It’s always worth digging deeper or consulting a professional.
Reality check: Ultimately, cross-checking their advice with credible sources or seeking guidance from a licensed medical expert can provide much-needed clarity.
Despite all the above red flags, there are wellness influencers offering solid, engaging health advice on social media. Your job is to become discerning in sniffing them out.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_text_separator title="Featured Products" border_width="2"][vc_row_inner equal_height="yes" content_placement="middle" gap="35"][vc_column_inner width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="181087" img_size="full" alignment="center" onclick="custom_link" img_link_target="_blank" css=".vc_custom_1735526374443{padding-right: 7% !important;padding-left: 7% !important;}" link="https://www.vitacost.com/source-naturals-wellness-fizz-natural-tangerine-10-wafers"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="181086" img_size="full" alignment="center" onclick="custom_link" img_link_target="_blank" css=".vc_custom_1735526390035{padding-right: 7% !important;padding-left: 7% !important;}" link="https://www.vitacost.com/terry-naturally-optimal-wellness-polyphenol-nutrients-for-daily-vitality"][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width="1/3"][vc_single_image image="181085" img_size="full" alignment="center" onclick="custom_link" img_link_target="_blank" css=".vc_custom_1735526407780{padding-right: 7% !important;padding-left: 7% !important;}" link="https://www.vitacost.com/source-naturals-wellness-formula-240-capsules-2"][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]
