From at-home stool tests to foot baths claiming to draw impurities from the body, the wellness industry is a booming market worth $1.5 trillion and still growing. Despite concerns about unproven therapies and their potential dangers, people continue to flock to these treatments. Colleen Derkatch, a researcher at Toronto Metropolitan University, set out to understand why this is the case.
The Rise of Unsubstantiated Claims
Unsubstantiated claims and celebrity endorsements are increasingly common in the unregulated wellness industry. Products promise to enhance energy, reduce stress, and slow down the aging process without scientific evidence to support these assertions. The US Food and Drug Administration has even recalled certain dietary supplements due to their misleading health claims.
Understanding the Appeal
In her book titled “Why Wellness Sells,” Colleen Derkatch conducted in-depth interviews with 40 individuals who regularly use wellness therapies and supplements. She also analyzed the discussions and language used in online communities focused on natural healing. Surprisingly, Derkatch discovered that the allure of the wellness industry is not solely due to individual gullibility but rather stems from societal failings.
Societal Failings and the Wellness Industry
Derkatch found that people are drawn to wellness therapies as a response to societal issues. This includes a lack of trust in the medical system, the desire for personal control and empowerment, and the cultural pressure to constantly improve oneself. Individuals turn to wellness as a means to address these underlying concerns.
The Need for Critical Examination
While the appeal of wellness therapies is understandable, it is essential to critically examine the evidence and claims made by the industry. Without scientific validation, there is a risk of wasting money, delaying effective medical treatment, or even harming one’s health.
Conclusion
The wellness industry’s allure goes beyond individual gullibility and is rooted in wider societal issues. Recognizing the need for personal empowerment and control, people turn to wellness therapies. However, it is crucial to differentiate between evidence-based treatments and those lacking scientific support.
