Use this before changing medication, supplements, diet, contraception, HRT, healthcare or training because of a social-media health post.
Red flags
- Absolute language: “every woman”, “always”, “never”.
- Fear or urgency: “you are damaging your hormones if you don’t act now”.
- Conspiracy framing: “doctors don’t want you to know”.
- Vague physiology: “reset”, “balance” or “detox” hormones without defining what is being measured.
- Diagnosis by generic quiz.
- One symptom = one diagnosis.
- Before-and-after bodies presented as medical proof.
- Testimonials used as proof of treatment efficacy.
- The person diagnosing the problem also sells the solution.
- “Natural means no side effects”.
- Instructions to stop or change prescribed medication.
- “WADA/UKAD approved” or “100% safe for tested athletes”.
Commercial does not automatically mean false
An influencer, affiliate relationship or sponsored post can still contain accurate information. The key questions are whether the commercial relationship is obvious and whether the exact health claim is independently supported. ASA/CAP requires marketing communications to be obviously identifiable; affiliate links and codes can bring related content within advertising rules.
30-second check
STOP
What exactly is claimed? Is the post creating urgency or fear?
CHECK
Source, evidence, population, commercial interest and possible harm.
VERIFY
Use an appropriate authority such as NHS, NICE, MHRA or UKAD where relevant.
If the post is about you
Do not let an algorithm diagnose you. Persistent, worsening or concerning symptoms deserve appropriate healthcare assessment. Do not stop prescribed medication on the basis of a social-media post.
Coaches
Do not forward influencer health content to athletes as if it were medical advice. Listen, support practical participation and signpost appropriately.
Girls
Use particular caution with content about body shape, weight loss, restrictive eating, supplements, hormone “resets” and menstrual manipulation. The NHS advises that herbal medicines are not recommended for children because insufficient information is available about safety.
A VIRAL CLAIM IS NOT A CLINICAL GUIDELINE.