Hey everyone, today I want to discuss a topic that’s been on my mind for quite some time. Don’t get me wrong—I’m not here to throw shade at anyone, including myself. In fact, everything I’m about to discuss could very well apply to me, too. But as we head into 2025, it’s worth considering how much we let fitness influencers dictate our lives, particularly in biohacking, health, diet, and bodybuilding.
The business of influencing is nothing new. Since the dawn of time, people have been swayed by the ideas and products pitched by others. There’s a reason so much money is pumped into influencer marketing: It helps sell ideas, concepts, and products. Of course, it’s not all bad. Consuming this content can expose us to new ideas and information we wouldn’t have otherwise encountered.
But here’s the catch: the constant stream of information can be overwhelming. It’s not just hour by hour, but minute by minute. The fitness and diet industry has exploded from a niche interest to a mainstream obsession. When I was growing up, supplements and diet books were niche interests. Now, they’re everywhere.
This influx of information can lead to obsessive behavior. I’ve seen it firsthand, both personally and professionally. The term “orthorexia,” coined by Dr. Steven Bratman, describes an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating. It’s not just about food but encompasses all lifestyle factors related to fitness and supplementation.
Dr. Bratman had an epiphany when a patient ignored his advice and felt better on a beer and pizza diet. It made him realize that he was overanalyzing and attributing physiological issues to diet when they might have been psychosomatic. It’s a reminder that we can literally make ourselves sick with anxiety and obsession.
When it comes to fitness advice, it’s hard to tell what’s causing what. Is it knowledge that leads to overthinking, or is it overthinking that drives people to seek more knowledge? Many people seeking health advice, including health professionals like registered dietitians, are the most susceptible to this cycle.
Many influencers, knowingly or unknowingly, contribute to this cycle. They have to churn out content regularly, which can lead to promoting ideas without fully understanding the consequences. People buy products simply because popular figures like Joe Rogan mentioned them, a testament to the influence these personalities wield.
One trend that comes to mind is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). It promises life-changing benefits but often hides the downsides. Some influencers like Elliot Hulse and Vince Del Monte have openly regretted their decision to use TRT. Considering both sides of the story is essential before jumping on any bandwagon.
I’m not saying to stop listening to influencers altogether. Instead, take their advice with a grain of salt and apply changes one at a time. Many people, including myself, have fallen into the trap of trying to incorporate too many health practices simultaneously, leading to stress and inconsistency.
Let’s not forget the basics: sustainable dietary choices, practical programming, and common-sense lifestyle factors like getting enough sleep and managing stress. These tried-and-true methods often get overshadowed by the latest trends, but they are far more impactful in the long run.
Finally, I’d like to point out how much social media you consume. It can be a source of stress and anxiety. Consider making small, meaningful changes for the new year rather than getting caught up in the latest fads. I hope this insight helps you as much as it’s helped me. Here’s to a healthier and more mindful 2025!
