Becoming a successful social media influencer can lead to a glamorous,easy life.
While many of us might scoff, in today’s social media marketplace, a hefty following could mean you’re able to give up the day job, sit back and reap the rewards.
Who wouldn’t rather shoot a couple of minutes of video every few days than slog away day in day out?
And, of course, there are no qualifications needed. There’s no rigorous testing or quality control. Anyone can do it – as long as they can generate the likes, follows and comments that lead to success.
Building a loyal following is key. That’s how the market dictates who makes it and who doesn’t. And sadly, when it comes to health and wellness, the more wacky your content, the more you’ll get noticed.
The problem is that, in my view, much of this content is incredibly toxic. It might sound strange coming from a doctor – surely anything that promotes healthy living is a good thing?
But that’s the issue, because what many wellness influencers advocate is not based on evidence or scientifically proven. There’s a lot of snake oil and absolute bunkum out there.
During the decade when Dr Max worked in an eating-disorder service, he would frequently see ‘influencers’ who had serious, life-threatening eating disorders
Wellness on social media is frequently enough a mirage; a fake landscape populated by fake people. You simply can’t trust everything to be quite as it seems.
How would I know? Well,because during the decade when I worked in an eating-disorder service I would frequently see ‘influencers’,some very well known,with hundreds of thousands of followers,who had serious,life-threatening eating disorders.
My colleagues and I were treating these women for eating disorders while they continued to advise their followers.
It became such an issue that we had meetings about whether we had a duty to warn the public. Because of patient confidentiality, we were hamstrung, but it feels wrong that troubled, profoundly unwell people are giving advice on eating healthily.
at one point, in a group of 12 patients, three were wellness influencers. One colleague said that given how ill some were they should be called ‘unwellness influencers’.They would post pictures of the food they were cooking and their exercise regimes, dispense advice and tips to followers so they, too, could live a gilded, healthy, life.
But they failed to mention the chocolate, cakes and pizza they gorged on each evening then vomited up, or the times when they restricted their diets so heavily that they passed out, or their bowels stopped working, or their hair fell out.
Their posts were a world away from what their lives were really like. It was a toxic fiction.It wasn’t just the fact that much of what they were advocating lacked any scientific evidence, but that the world they created and that people were buying into was based on lies.
None admitted to their foll
Recovered History & Brain Health: News from August 25, 2025
Table of Contents
This update covers a poignant story of historical restitution alongside promising research regarding Alzheimer’s prevention. We’ll explore the return of a looted family heirloom and the potential benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids for women’s cognitive health.
Restitution and Remembrance: A Table’s journey Home
In west London, The Wiener Holocaust Library is currently hosting an exhibition detailing a remarkable story of recovery and reconciliation. The story centers around Katharina Mayrhofer, who discovered a table in her family’s attic that had been looted during the Holocaust. The Wiener Holocaust Library is a leading institution dedicated to Holocaust research and education.
Mayrhofer diligently traced the table’s origins, ultimately connecting with a descendant of the original owner. The table was successfully restored to the family, and a lasting friendship blossomed between Mayrhofer and the descendant. This story highlights the ongoing efforts to address the lasting impact of the Holocaust and the importance of returning stolen property to its rightful owners. The exhibition serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict and the enduring power of restorative justice.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids & Alzheimer’s Prevention in Women
Recent research indicates a potential link between Omega-3 fatty acid intake and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease in women. A study released last week highlighted the protective effects of these essential fats. The alzheimer’s Association provides extensive data on Alzheimer’s disease, its risk factors, and current research.
Omega-3 fatty acids are readily available through dietary sources such as:
Salmon: A rich source of EPA and DHA, two key types of Omega-3s.
Mackerel: Another excellent source of these beneficial fats.
Sardines: Small but mighty, sardines pack a meaningful Omega-3 punch.
Alternatively, Omega-3 supplements are widely available. Many healthcare professionals, including myself, recommend incorporating Omega-3s into a daily routine for overall health and potentially for cognitive protection.
Why are Omega-3s significant for brain health?
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, are crucial components of brain cell membranes.They play a vital role in:
Reducing Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s.
Supporting Neuron Function: DHA helps neurons communicate effectively.
Protecting Against Amyloid Plaques: Some research suggests Omega-3s may help prevent the buildup of amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
Important Note: While promising,this research focuses on potential benefits. It’s crucial to discuss any dietary changes or supplement use with your healthcare provider to determine what’s best for your individual needs.
Key Takeaways
the Wiener Holocaust Library exhibition showcases a powerful story of looted art restitution and reconciliation.
New research suggests Omega-3 fatty acids may offer protective benefits against Alzheimer’s disease in women.
Omega-3s can be obtained through diet (salmon, mackerel, sardines) or supplements. Consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.This is an evolving area of research,and continued studies will further clarify the role of Omega-3 fatty acids in preventing alzheimer’s disease.Staying informed about both historical remembrance and advancements in preventative healthcare is crucial for a healthier and more just future.