Supplement use is surging worldwide, but a growing number of experts warn that they are wasting precious consultation time tackling false health claims.
A survey of nearly 900 NHS staff has revealed growing concern about health misinformation on social media, steering cancer patients away from treatments that actually work.
The polling, from YouGov for the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF), revealed that two out of five health workers promote false or misleading information about supplements at least once a week.
The figure is higher among nurses and midwives - 53 per cent of whom share inaccurate information that doctors then have to correct during consultations.
Britons are being urged to consult a healthcare practitioner before taking supplements
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The WCRF’s UK director, Steven Greenberg, highlighted that much of the information surrounding supplements is “distorted” and often “taken out of context or presented in a way that hides the risks”.
“From horse wormers to apricot kernels, which can cause serious cyanide toxicity, to everyday items like sugar and vitamin C, social media is flooded with false promises and dangerous claims about cancer prevention and cures," he told The Guardian.
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“We are hearing from patients, nurses, GPs and oncology dietitians that this is pulling people away from the evidence-based changes to diet and lifestyle that can genuinely make a difference, while eating up precious time in NHS consultations."
Consumers often consider over-the-counter products harmless because they can be purchased without a prescription, but anyone concerned about their health should seek advice from a qualified doctor first.
Side effects from turmeric supplements include liver injury, while some forms of magnesium could trigger digestive issues.
Raw apricot kernels contain the natural ingredient amygdalin, which converts to cyanide after consumption, causing nausea, fever, headaches, insomnia, thirst, lethargy, nervousness, and muscle aches. In extreme cases, it is fatal.
Information about supplements circulating on social media is often distorted
| GETTYThe survey also highlighted that many NHS staff feel they don't have the tools to challenge patients' beliefs in unproven therapies like detox diets.
Sometimes, the suggestions come from loved ones who genuinely want to help, having seen convincing claims online.
The WCRF is now calling on ministers to include misinformation training in the forthcoming long-term workforce plan for the NHS.
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