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Before You Try That TikTok Health Hack, Read This

October 10, 2025

Your social feed is full of life-changing health hacks, viral fitness trends and wellness advice that promises quick results.

With so much information at your fingertips, it can be hard to know what’s worth paying attention to. And when it comes to your health, following the wrong advice can do more harm than good.

So, asked an expert how to separate fact from fiction and find the trends that are truly worth your time.

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Start with the source

Before you try that new detox, as yourself: Who’s sharing this —and why?

“Look to see if it comes from a scientifically backed organization, a legitimate institution or a qualified professional,” says Melissa Archambault, MSN, RN, director of Colleague Health Nursing at Hartford HealthCare. “Just because someone has thousands of followers doesn’t mean their information is accurate.”

A quick credibility check can save you a lot of confusion. Ask:

What are this person’s credentials or training?
Are they sharing actual research or just opinions?
Are other reliable sources saying the same thing?

“Never rely on one post, one podcast or one influencer,” Archambault adds. “Do your homework.”

Find trends worth trying

Not everything online is bad advice. Some social media trends actually encourage healthy habits — and can make exercise or self-care a little more fun.

Archambault says these are a few worth exploring:

Cozy cardio. Gentle, low-impact movements that feel approachable.
Dance or step challenges. Playful ways to stay active.
Couch-to-5k programs. Beginner-friendly path to running.

“These trends all focus on moving your body, and anything that gets you up and active can support a healthy lifestyle,” she says. Social communities that emphasize self-care, mindful movement and balanced nutrition can also be a positive influence.

Follow the right people

When in doubt, try to look for organizations and experts you’d trust in real life, Archambault suggests. Reliable options include:

American Heart Association
American Medical Association
Universities and medical journals
Licensed healthcare professionals

“If an influencer is promoting a specific diet or exercise plan, ask yourself what credentials they have,” she says.

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Scroll past the red flags

Some posts should raise an eyebrow — or earn an instant unfollow. Watch out for:

“Miracle cure” claims
Anything dismissing scientific evidence
Content that attacks healthcare professionals
Pressure to buy a product, program or subscription

“If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” Archambault warns. “And never, ever use social media to self-diagnose or self-treat.”

The safe way to use social media for health

If you want to try something you saw online, verify it with multiple credible sources first — and always check with your doctor.

“Before starting a new diet, exercise routine, supplement or medication, talk with your healthcare provider,” Archambault says. “Social media can be inspiring, but your health deserves more than advice from a trending hashtag.”