If you've spent any amount of time on social media recently, you've probably encountered someone telling you how to eat, exercise, heal your gut, balance your hormones, improve your mental health, or finally achieve the body you've always wanted.
 

Some creators share thoughtful, evidence-based information. Others may genuinely want to help. And some are simply very good marketers.

The problem? Social media doesn't always make it easy to tell the difference.

As a therapist and dietitian who work closely with individuals navigating eating disorders, body image concerns, and their relationship with food, we regularly hear clients reference information they've seen online. Sometimes that information is helpful. Other times, it leaves people feeling confused, ashamed, fearful, or convinced that they are somehow doing something wrong.

The reality is that social media rewards visibility, confidence, and engagement—not necessarily accuracy.

In fact, one recent review found that nearly 45% of nutrition-related content shared by influencers on Instagram contained inaccurate information, (Peterson, 2024). Think about that for a moment. If you spend two hours scrolling social media each day, you could potentially be exposed to an hour of misleading or inaccurate health information without even realizing it.

A polished feed, impressive transformation photos, a large following, or a blue verification check can create the impression that someone is an expert. But popularity is not the same thing as credibility.

Research has also found that many health influencers make claims without strong scientific evidence to support them. In addition, studies have shown that influencers often leave out important information such as potential risks or side effects, exaggerate benefits, use fear-based messaging, or fail to clearly disclose financial incentives behind the products and services they promote.

This becomes especially important when it comes to nutrition, wellness, and body image content. Many influencers share recommendations, products, or personal experiences that are presented as universal truths. What often gets left out is that what works for one person may not be appropriate—or even safe—for another.

When you come across health information online, it can be helpful to get curious before accepting it as fact.

Ask yourself:

• Who is providing this information?

• What qualifications do they have?

• Are they speaking within their area of expertise?

• Are they providing evidence to support their claims?

• Are they educating, selling, or both?

One of our favorite reminders is that good education and marketing can coexist ethically. Many qualified professionals use social media to share valuable information and connect with broader audiences. Transparency is what matters. Are sponsorships clearly disclosed? Is uncertainty acknowledged when appropriate? Are recommendations individualized rather than presented as one-size-fits-all solutions?

We also encourage people to look beyond a creator's profile. Instead of relying solely on what someone says about themselves, take a moment to verify credentials through outside sources. A long list of letters after someone's name may sound impressive, but not all certifications require the same level of education, training, supervision, or accountability.

Perhaps most importantly, pay attention to how the content makes you feel.

Does it leave you feeling informed and empowered? Or does it create fear, urgency, guilt, or shame?

Does it encourage curiosity and critical thinking? Or does it suggest that there is only one right way to eat, move, or care for yourself?

The next time something appears on your feed that promises a quick fix, secret solution, or dramatic transformation, consider pausing before hitting save or add to cart.

Ask yourself:

• Are they qualified?

• Are they transparent?

• Are they evidence-based?

• Are they staying within their scope?

• Are they educating—or selling?

In a world where anyone can become an influencer, learning how to evaluate information may be one of the most important wellness skills we can develop.

The goal isn't to become skeptical of everything you see online. Social media can be a wonderful place to learn, connect, and discover new perspectives. Rather, our hope is that you feel empowered to approach online health information with curiosity, critical thinking, and self-compassion. In a world full of opinions, learning how to evaluate information may be one of the most important wellness skills we can develop.

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- Jen & Nina

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Works Cited: 

Peterson, A. (2024, September 14). Who exactly is that wellness influencer? Not likely a doctor or nurse. The Wall Street Journal. ​