Module 2: Social Media & Health Myths
Introduction
Instagram, Tik Tok, and other social media platforms can be fantastic sources of entertainment and information, but how do we know what we can trust? Social media is a powerful tool for sharing information, but it is also a major source of misinformation, particularly in health and wellness. As most of us have seen, there is not shortage of influencers telling us the new trends on what is considered ‘healthy,’ and offering advice on how to achieve our desired health goals. This module will help you understand how social media influences health beliefs, identify common health myths, and develop strategies to critically evaluate health claims that are made online.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Recognize how social media influences health perceptions.
- Identify common health myths that circulate online.
- Evaluate the credibility of health-related content on social media.
- Apply critical thinking skills to assess health information.
The Influence of Social Media on Health Beliefs
Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok shape the way people understand health. While they can be useful for spreading awareness and helpful tips, they are also filled with misleading claims and misinformation. Influencers, brands, and even unverified “experts” often promote health trends that are not backed by science, leading to potential health risks. It is crucial to understand that people make these claims for a variety of reasons including sponsorships, brand deals, or their own beliefs and experiences.
Common Health Myths on Social Media
Here are some common myths and the facts that debunk them:
- Fad Diets (Keto, Carnivore, Juice Cleanses) – Trendy diets promise quick weight loss and improved health. Fact: While some diets may help short-term weight loss, extreme diets can be unhealthy, unsustainable, and may lack essential nutrients (National Institute of Health, n.d.)
- Miracle Cures & Quick Fixes – Some products claim to boost immunity, melt fat overnight, or cure diseases instantly. Fact: There is no such thing as a quick fix. Sustainable health changes require balanced nutrition, exercise, and medical advice (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, n.d.)
- Exercise Myths – Common myths include “spot reduction” (losing fat in just one area) and “sweating more means burning more fat.” Fact: You cannot target fat loss in one specific area, and sweating is not necessarily linked to fat loss (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, n.d.)
How to Identify Reliable Health Information
It is important to critically evaluate any health claim you come across on social media. Here’s how:
- Check the Source – Is the information coming from a credible institution like the CDC, WHO, or a certified medical expert?
- Look for Evidence – Does the claim cite peer-reviewed studies or expert consensus?
- Be Skeptical of Buzzwords – Terms like “cure-all,” “instant results,” or “natural alternative” can be misleading.
- Watch for Anecdotal Evidence – Just because something worked for one person does not mean it is scientifically valid or that it would work for you.
- Fact Check – Look into the claims to see if they are supported by research.
Video Reflections
Video 1: A Look Back at Nutritional Misinformation
To better understand and combat misinformation, please watch two important videos. The first, “The History of Nutritional Misinformation” is a TED talk by Matt Siegel, who delves into the historical roots of misinformation and its impact on society. The second, “Debunking and Prebunking: How to Fight Misinformation” by Healthcare Triage, explores practical strategies for recognizing and addressing misleading information, especially in health and science. Both videos provide valuable insights and tools to help you critically assess information and protect yourself from false claims.
Before viewing the videos below, please review the questions for each to help guide your reflection as you watch.
Reflection Questions:
- What are some examples of historical nutritional misinformation, and how have they influenced public perception of food and health. Have they changed for the better, worse, or stayed relatively the same?
- What factors contribute to the spread of nutritional myths. Why do they persist despite how far science has advanced?
Siegel, M. (2019, December 19). A brief history of nutritional misinformation [Video]. YouTube. TEDx Talks. https://youtu.be/VM1zCZLCClM?si=E5sj38S2b0xhdhcc
Video 2: Debunking and “Prebunking” Misinformation
Reflection Question:
- What is the difference between debunking and prebunking, and why is prebunking considered more effective?
- What factors make people susceptible to misinformation? How can understanding this help to combat false claims?
- Why does Healthcare Triage recommend to avoid engaging with misinformation, even if you recognize it as misleading and want to offer a correction?
Healthcare Triage. (2017, October 30). Debunking and Prebunking: How to Fight Misinformation [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/jHJq_4-f0tA?si=zMiY-6yZwNMNhWUc
Now that you’ve watched the video:
- Do you think you will engage with misinformation any differently? Why or why not? What would you add or refine?
- What is one specific action you can make in how you evaluate or discuss health information in your life?
Activity:
Using the tools you’ve learned so far, find and evaluate a current piece of health misinformation. How do you know this is misinformation? Consider the source, the language, and whether peer-reviewed research supports or refutes the claim. How would you advise a friend who comes to you with an interest in the claim?
Please submit via email.
Conclusion
Social media can be a great resource for health and wellness information, but it is important to verify the credibility of what you read. By using fact-checking strategies, relying on reputable sources, and thinking critically about health claims, you can make informed decisions and help prevent the spread of misinformation. Stay curious, ask questions, do your research, and don’t be afraid to start conversations! Your knowledge can make a difference!
What can you do to prevent misinformation?
- Explore additional resources on media literacy.
- Practice using fact-checking tools on recent health trends.
- Share what you’ve learned with friends and family to promote accurate health information.
References
National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). The dangers of fad diets. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Retrieved from https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/nutrition
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (n.d.). Beware of health misinformation. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Retrieved from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/know-science/evaluate-websitesNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (n.d.). Physical activity facts.
National Institutes of Health. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/physical-activity-and-your-heart