The Perils of Wellness Content on Social Media
It is no surprise to learn that social media platforms are often channels for mis- and disinformation. Misinformation refers to false information that is shared unintentionally, while disinformation signifies the deliberate dissemination of falsehoods, commonly for profit or to incite chaos. Both forms spread rapidly across social media.
Health and Wellness Information on TikTok
With a decline in trust for traditional institutions like government and healthcare, many users are increasingly turning to social media for health and wellness insights. Research indicates TikTok has emerged as a key source for health information among young people, particularly concerning nutrition (Zeng et al., 2025). However, the platform often propagates misleading health information, glorifying weight loss and presenting unrealistic body images, especially towards female users.
Notably, Zeng et al. (2025) found that only 4 to 5 percent of dietary content viewed by users on TikTok originates from actual experts, highlighting a concerning trend where a vast majority of posts are promoted by non-credentialed wellness influencers. Alarmingly, content tied to diet and weight loss is the least likely to be factual compared to other wellness topics.
This situation points to an unsettling reality: Despite the surge in information available, users struggle to find credible sources. A significant aspect of the challenge is the inconsistency in transparency among wellness influencers, with over 80 percent failing to disclose affiliate advertising or potential conflicts of interest regarding their content (Zeng et al., 2025).
Science Under Attack
We find ourselves in an era where science is frequently challenged, leading many individuals to seek alternative health advice. In fact, a concerning 86 percent of Americans resorted to social media for health guidance last year (Khan, 2024). In this unregulated environment, users face the daunting task of deciphering accurate information from misleading content. Unlike traditional media, social media lacks established gatekeepers, raising alarming issues of accountability for potentially harmful advice.
On social media, popularity often supersedes expertise. User engagement is prioritized over credibility, causing virally spread misinformation to overshadow legitimate health facts.
In conclusion, while exploring new wellness trends, individuals must remain vigilant. Consumer awareness is paramount as reliance on social media can lead to the consumption of unfounded health advice. If promised benefits fail to materialize, there’s often no regulatory body to hold content creators accountable.
Copyright Azadeh Aalai 2025
References:
Zeng, M., Grgurevic, J., Diyab, R., Roy, R. (2025). #WhatIEatinaDay: The Quality, Accuracy, and Engagement of Nutrition Content on TikTok. Nutrients, 17(5), 1–12.
Khan, R. (2024). Social Media and Health Trends: Separate Fact from Fiction. Daily Health & Care.
Comments are closed