Modern Gurus and the Allure of Health Myths
It feels like it’s been a long time since I’ve “debunked” anything, but I hope I’ve earned your trust in this space. Last week I came across some posts from a guy I know in Southern California. He used to run a CrossFit gym, but now he’s reincarnated as a kind of guru or spiritual leader, complete with a long sage-like beard. I find the claims he and his fellow gurus are making on social media disturbing. What’s most disturbing is that there are over a million people who espouse this nonsense. There are obviously a lot of people out there who suffer from some kind of chronic physical or mental pain, and it must be a disappointment in the medical system to turn to something that was disproved by modern medicine hundreds of years ago.
It’s all well and good to say this stuff is crazy (I’m about to say it right now), but something is clearly wrong when people are looking to these charlatans for answers instead of doctors. Only once that problem is fixed can people get help. But I can’t fix the world’s healthcare system, so my gift this week is to talk about supplements.
Misinformation about supplements
This week, the aforementioned account posted a discount code (also known as a kickback to influencers) for Pineal Decalcification. According to the post, the pineal gland is very important in the production of melanin, which affects skin tone and how it interacts with the sun. I am here to state that this is false. The pineal gland plays a major role in the production of melatonin. Although melatonin and melanin are very similar, these hormones work very differently. Just because they have a few letters in common does not make them the same. This kind of thing is very common in pseudoscience, where people confuse real claims with fake ones.
The pineal gland does indeed calcify. A 2023 meta-analysis found that 61.65% of the population tested had a calcified pineal gland. This occurs with age, but age does not seem to be a determining factor, as it can occur in infants. Calcification appears to be based on the individual’s metabolism. According to the above explanation and many others like it, the pineal gland is the third eye, connecting the material and spiritual worlds. The usual conspiracy theories follow, such as world governments putting fluoride in the water to calcify the pineal gland and prevent it from connecting with the spiritual world.
But fear not: It’s said that you can access the quantum realm by placing an indigo crystal like amethyst over your third eye chakra, gazing into the sun while chanting, and spending money on pineal gland cleansing supplements.
The reality and effects of supplements
To sum up, this gland, which is in the brain and serves a biological purpose, is said to play a spiritual role for which there is no evidence. There is also a global conspiracy designed to thwart this spiritual role, but also without evidence, so that people can buy unproven supplements to cure made-up problems. This got me thinking, because the supplement industry is huge. Apparently, it was worth $177 billion in 2023. I understand the appeal of supplements. In our fast-paced world, the idea of a quick fix to improve health is appealing. But most experts argue that most supplements don’t work as advertised and may not work at all for the average person who isn’t deficient in certain nutrients.
A large study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that multivitamin use does not reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer or cardiovascular disease. Similarly, a 2018 review of research on vitamin and mineral supplements found no measurable benefit in preventing heart disease or cancer. Taking too many supplements can be not only ineffective but also dangerous, as taking large amounts of certain vitamins can cause toxicity.
Focus on diet and lifestyle, not supplements
The key is to focus on addressing the root cause of the problem rather than trying to mask the symptoms with medication. A balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management are essential to maintaining overall health. Whole foods contain a complex matrix of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other beneficial compounds that work together to promote good health.
Also read: What is “food is medicine”?
Supplements can be beneficial in certain situations, such as for people with certain deficiencies, at certain life stages, with certain health conditions, or with dietary restrictions. However, it is important that supplements should only be used under the guidance of a medical professional to avoid improper dosing and potential health risks. Ultimately, supplements are no substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle. The best approach to health is a holistic approach that addresses the root cause of the problem, rather than trying to solve everything with a pill.
Always seek professional advice when necessary and avoid getting health advice from social media, especially if the advice comes with a disclaimer at the end stating that it is intended for “educational purposes” only and not medical advice.
