Movies

Unmasking the Dark Side of Health Influencers in Netflix’s Apple Cider Vinegar

BBG News

Experiencing Netflix’s show “Apple Cider Vinegar” might make you feel as if you’ve stumbled into an information swamp filled with misconceptions, and you’ll spend the whole time vacillating between feelings of shock, revulsion, and puzzlement.

The show narrates the tale of Belle Gibson, a real-life health influencer (portrayed by Kaitlyn Dever), who was popular in Australia. In 2015, it was revealed that she had falsely claimed to have brain cancer and that she had cured it through alternative medicine, all for fame. This shocking truth is chilling because Gibson’s actions of amassing a vast following by spreading lies that potentially harmed others rather than herself is not unique in the influencer world.

The portrayal of Apple Cider Vinegar in some discussions falls short in capturing the intricacies that facilitated Gibson’s rise, such as her white privilege, disparities in healthcare based on race and gender, causing patients to distrust medical professionals, and a concerning indifference towards truth in our era dominated by social media. Misinformation about health and wellness has become increasingly prevalent with influencers online. Apple Cider Vinegar is just one example of people resorting to alternative treatments in an attempt to cure cancer. Liana Werner-Gray, who promotes natural healing methods, published a bestselling book in 2014 titled The Earth Diet, detailing her victory over cancer through a rigorous detoxification plan.

Medical experts frequently express worry over misleading facts such as those often shared by health influencers. Gail Cresci, a dietitian and researcher at Cleveland Clinic, has observed people blindly repeating health advice from influencers without checking the facts. For example, an apple cider vinegar remedy promoted in a Netflix series may raise questions. Although Cresci, who serves on Bragg’s Scientific Advisory Board and contributes to product development, appreciates the diverse benefits of apple cider vinegar, she clarifies that it does not have the ability to cure cancer.

She explains that she educates future doctors, and it surprises her when these students discuss topics from social media. ‘They follow the advice of online influencers,’ she remarks, ‘but there’s no solid proof to support it.’

Why people are drawn to wellness influencers

The prominence of health influencers, particularly in the realm of Apple Cider Vinegar, underscores both their impact and the challenging medical situations faced by numerous patients. In a particular episode, a character named Milla (portrayed by Alycia Debnam-Carey, partially based on Jessica Ainscough) disregards her doctors’ advice to amputate her arm, instead opting for unconventional treatments like apple cider vinegar, which she had learned about from a well-known social media account.

As I watched Milla’s health deteriorate, my heart ached and desperation took hold, compelling me to seek out my doctor in hope for a cure. However, it was too late; the progression of her illness had claimed her life at just 30 years old.

According to Cresci, many patients, upon receiving an early diagnosis, often don’t experience pain. This is something I encounter frequently in my practice. People with early stages of pre-diabetes or hypertension usually don’t feel any symptoms until their conditions advance. It’s only then that they begin to notice the effects on their bodies.

Cresci acknowledges that patients might turn to wellness influencers, especially in the cancer field, due to their relatable suggestions. These influencers may not be thoroughly vetted, but they often propose home remedies like apple cider vinegar instead of costly medications. It’s difficult for many to resist the temptation to believe these alternatives might work. As Cresci explains, “When it comes to medicine, what’s prescribed can seem mysterious and not fully understood.” Furthermore, she notes that the harsh side effects and unpredictable success rates of cancer treatments can leave patients feeling like they have few other options left.

“So, they’re grabbing for anything. The person has control over what’s going on.”

As a movie enthusiast, I’ve found that the absence of knowledge and connection often breeds a deep-rooted distrust in our relationships, such as the one between patients and doctors. I, too, have encountered this predicament. I remember visiting a physician after an athlete injury, feeling unheard and misunderstood. They couldn’t fathom my passion for constant running, and their advice was to never run again. However, that didn’t align with my lifestyle, so I sought another perspective, someone who would validate my desire to keep moving.

According to Cresci, the second opinion isn’t necessarily being given by another doctor or a reliable expert anymore.

One concern is that some patients find their appointments with doctors too brief. As one person put it, “Doctors often have limited time to spend with their patients.” The congestion in a doctor’s waiting room, due to an overabundance of patients, exacerbates this problem. Additionally, understaffed medical offices can lead to patients feeling hurried or misunderstood, as the doctor might not be adept at explaining things in a way that the patient can easily comprehend.

The issue is further complicated by the persistent racial and gender inequalities that disproportionately impact women, especially Black and brown individuals. A recent study revealed that female patients are statistically more likely to perish if their doctor is male rather than female. Simultaneously, NPR reported that Black Americans often receive subpar care compared to their counterparts.

As a film enthusiast, I find it intriguing that Apple Cider Vinegar remains oblivious to this intricate world of online wellness. This sphere, predominantly populated by white influencers and their followers, is just the tip of an iceberg, hiding a rich tapestry of diverse experiences. The reality is, for many women and individuals from underrepresented groups, they might find solace in advice dispensed by influencers who resemble them, individuals they can relate to. Cresci, a seasoned professional, acknowledges this trend, using her platform to engage with students and address these issues within the medical curriculum. She emphasizes the importance of understanding social determinants of health, effective communication with patients, and conducting meaningful patient interviews.

However, this research also presents certain difficulties. For instance, Cresci is leading a study exploring the reasons behind higher colon cancer rates among Black Americans. It’s frequently misconstrued that this disparity is due to lack of access to preventative care, but her study focuses on diet and microbiome as potential causes. Unfortunately, the number of Black participants in the study is insufficient.

According to Cresci, there were women who had signed up who commented, “I guess only men will join this,” implying a lack of interest from males. They stated that unless the program directly benefited them, they wouldn’t be involved. Much of this reluctance seemed rooted in trust issues and misunderstandings.

How influencers exploit a lack of trust—and how doctors can recoup it

The use of Apple Cider Vinegar highlights the unfortunate truth that even the wellness influencer community struggles with trust and comprehension matters. The fact that Gibson managed to amass such a vast and devoted fanbase on the basis of numerous deceptions underscores the desperation of those who followed her for some form of solution, as well as their sometimes misguided trust in her.

Cresci stated, “She recently solicited sympathy from others.” He added, “She was quite skillful at acting. All through the narrative, her mother claimed she did it for the limelight. She was remarkably adept at manipulating her emotions and crying on cue.

As a discerning moviegoer who’s keen on recognizing the subtle manipulations in characters, I can attest that the strategic use of emotional displays is often a powerful tool. In the riveting drama, “Apple Cider Vinegar,” Belle, our leading lady, employs this tactic masterfully. At a crucial point during a party at her residence, she dramatically collapses, feigning a seizure just as truth about her was on the verge of unveiling. By tugging at the heartstrings of those around her, Belle skillfully played her part. This act of manipulation was instrumental to her intricate web of deception. For healthcare professionals, managing patients who are potentially being misled or seeking advice from influencers is a delicate balancing act. Cresci, our protagonist, endeavors to gauge each patient’s unique learning and communication style, recognizing that they seek her expertise to determine if dietary changes could aid them in overcoming their health challenges.

In simpler terms, “I often encounter individuals dealing with numerous stomach problems. It’s common knowledge that diet can aid in managing these issues. So, when they inform me of their actions, I usually explain to them why those specific choices might not be the most beneficial for their condition.

Cresci describes that as an evidence-based approach.

After they comprehend their situation, she explains, they might be able to grasp why their actions could actually work against their goals.

When patients mention wellness influencers to her, Cresci recommends thoroughly investigating the individuals providing health guidance. She advises checking their qualifications. Remember, just because someone labels themselves as a nutritionist doesn’t automatically mean they are officially certified. Instead, registered dietitians undergo extensive training: four years of undergraduate study, two years in a master’s degree program, an internship lasting more than one year, preparation for and taking the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam, additional time in a coordinated degree program, and obtaining a license to practice dietetics in their respective states, if necessary.

Cresci’s guidance might seem straightforward, but as she points out, anyone could write a book and claim to be a nutritionist. In her words, “Just because someone claims to be a medical doctor, they may be attempting to push their own viewpoint.” She suggests that this advice might not be backed by evidence or they might exaggerate a small truth.

An individual might attempt to conduct research akin to that of medical professionals, often on social media platforms where verification is scarce – leading to numerous supplements being marketed and sold without concrete evidence of their efficacy. It’s important to note that the Food and Drug Administration oversees supplement safety as a food product, not a drug. As Cresci notes, “Much of what’s available isn’t regulated, making it easy for people to purchase these supplements directly from shelves without any oversight.

She adds: “It’s scary because, what can you trust?”

That question could be asked of both influencers and doctors.

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2025-03-04 20:06

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