The rise of social media has made it easier for health trends to spread quickly, often with little scientific backing.
Influencers, celebrities, and wellness bloggers often promote new diets, supplements, and remedies, leading many to believe these trends are the next big thing for improving health.
The biggest challenge is differentiating between evidence-based health advice and popular but unverified trends.
As we know, health professionals often stress the importance of consulting with qualified medical experts before adopting new health practices or supplements, as some trends may be ineffective, unnecessary, or even dangerous.
Meanwhile, Amina Khan, a UK-based pharmacist and social media influencer, has issued a warning against taking three types of supplements that are popular among the younger generation.
Gummy bear is widely believed to enhance overall health or compensate for nutrient deficiencies. It is made from gelatin, sugar, and flavoring agents. In recent years, Gummy bears have also become popular as a form of vitamin supplements, such as multivitamins, vitamin C, and other nutrients, promoted for their ease of consumption and appealing taste.
However, Khan holds a different perspective. “These are essentially sugar pills, you might as well have a candy,” she stated. “They’re easy to over-consume, which can lead to mineral toxicity.”
Excess sugar intake can lead to obesity, dental problems, and other metabolic issues.
Khan prefers traditional supplements, such as capsules and tablets, for adults, and for children, she recommends liquid or spray supplements.
2. General vitamins
According to Khan, over one-third of Americans, particularly those aged 65 and older, take daily multivitamins to support their overall health. However, she points out that these multivitamins typically contain a blend of various nutrients, but the amounts of each may be so minimal that they don’t have a significant impact on the body.
Additionally, she argues that not everyone needs all the vitamins present in a multivitamin, as individual nutritional needs can vary greatly.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), taking multivitamins with high amounts of fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K, can be dangerous due to the body’s ability to store these vitamins for extended periods. Overdose of these vitamins can lead to a buildup that may result in various adverse health effects.
3. Skin and hair supplements
As we see social media is filled with advertisements for skin and hair supplements, claiming to transform your appearance by promoting younger-looking skin and stronger, thicker hair.
However, Amina Khan warns that in some cases, these supplements could actually increase cancer risk. According to her, many of the products marketed for skin, hair, and nails contain high doses of micronutrients such as vitamins A, B6, B12, E, and selenium.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), overdosing on vitamins A, B6, B12, E, and selenium can be harmful to health. The excessive intake of these nutrients to higher cancer risks in various groups of people. It’s important to be cautious with these supplements, especially considering the long-term effects on health.
