Why Accurate Nutrition Advice Matters
Social media can be a double-edged sword for people with coeliac disease. While Instagram and other platforms offer vast access to nutrition tips and product recommendations, they also expose users to a high volume of unreliable information. A recent study highlights how common nutrition-related misinformation is on Instagram, especially among popular Australian accounts. For people with coeliac disease, who rely on precise dietary guidance, navigating this information carefully is essential.
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, which can damage the small intestine, leading to malabsorption of nutrients and other health complications if gluten is consumed. Given these risks, individuals with coeliac disease often turn to social media for ideas on gluten-free foods, recipes, and tips on managing their dietary needs. However, the recent study revealed that much of the health and nutrition information on Instagram lacks scientific accuracy. This misinformation could easily lead to dietary missteps or overreliance on products that don’t genuinely support the condition.
Understanding the Quality and Accuracy of Instagram Nutrition Information
The study, published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, analysed over 600 Instagram posts from accounts with over 100,000 followers, covering a range of nutrition topics, including supplements and weight loss. Using a specific assessment tool called the Principles for Health-related Information on Social Media (PRHISM), researchers evaluated each post for accuracy and quality. Shockingly, only a small percentage of posts were rated as “good” quality, and none reached an “excellent” rating. This finding reveals a significant issue: many posts about nutrition on Instagram are not only unreliable but may also spread misinformation.
One of the study’s concerning findings was that posts about supplements had particularly low accuracy ratings, with many posts making unfounded claims about health benefits. For people with coeliac disease, supplements may sometimes be necessary, especially for addressing potential deficiencies in nutrients like iron, calcium, or vitamin D. But turning to social media for supplement advice could mean relying on exaggerated or inaccurate claims. A post promoting a supplement as a “cure” for digestive issues, for example, might mislead someone into using an ineffective product, potentially worsening their health.
The Importance of Trusted, Evidence-Based Information
For anyone managing a chronic condition like coeliac disease, health information must be both high-quality and accurate. Instagram influencers, while persuasive and popular, aren’t always qualified health professionals, and their posts can sometimes prioritise engagement and visibility over accuracy. The study found that posts by nutritionists or dietitians had a much higher standard of accuracy, with fewer errors or misleading claims than those created by brands or fitness influencers. For individuals with coeliac disease, seeking information from credentialed professionals is essential, as they can trust the advice is rooted in science, not sponsorships or marketing tactics.
Since people with coeliac disease are often exposed to misinformation about “miracle” supplements or alternative diets on social media, it’s crucial to recognise red flags. This can include posts that lack evidence or reliable sources, rely on personal testimonials, or contain extreme claims about health benefits. Such information can be misleading at best, and at worst, may lead to harmful dietary choices.
How to Navigate Social Media Nutrition Content as a Coeliac Disease Patient
So how can someone with coeliac disease use social media responsibly to support their health? Here are a few practical tips:
- Seek Verified Accounts: Look for nutrition information from accounts with credentials in dietetics or nutrition science, as their content is likely to adhere to evidence-based practices.
- Check for References and Sources: Reliable nutrition posts often cite scientific studies, dietary guidelines, or reputable health organisations. Posts without references may be more opinion-based or promotional.
- Be Skeptical of Supplement Claims: The study found that supplement information was among the least accurate on social media. If you need to supplement due to coeliac disease, consult a dietitian or doctor who understands your specific health requirements.
- Look for Balanced Information: High-quality nutrition advice includes both risks and benefits, offers alternatives, and encourages consulting with health professionals. Be cautious if the post only presents positive outcomes without any balanced context.
- Engage with Dietitians and Coeliac Organisations: Following accounts managed by dietitians, coeliac disease organisations, or clinics specialising in gastrointestinal health can provide you with more reliable resources and support.
Moving Toward Safer Nutrition Advice on Social Media
To combat the spread of misinformation, the study suggests that social media platforms and influencers take more responsibility. Platforms like Instagram could implement better verification processes for health accounts, encouraging influencers to include citations, financial disclosures, and references. Influencers, especially those without professional health qualifications, could help by clarifying that their advice is personal opinion and should not replace professional guidance.
People with coeliac disease need accurate, accessible, and science-based information to effectively manage their health. Though social media offers a great opportunity for community and support, it is also filled with potentially harmful misinformation. By following trusted sources and remaining skeptical of unverified health claims, coeliac patients can protect their health and make more informed choices.
While social media is an accessible source of information for many, including those managing coeliac disease, it requires careful navigation. Recognising the difference between reliable advice and persuasive marketing can help you stay informed and healthy. Social media platforms, influencers, and users alike play roles in ensuring that nutrition-related information is both accurate and helpful, especially for those with specific dietary needs like coeliac disease.
Denniss, E., Lindberg, R., Marchese, L.E. et al. #Fail: the quality and accuracy of nutrition-related information by influential Australian Instagram accounts. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 21, 16 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12966-024-01565-y