Women 'wasting money on health fads'

By Marianne Straker, Thu 12 Nov 2009 - Published in Life Insurance

A new study has criticised the health fads which people are copying from celebrities, which may concern those with life insurance.

The Health Hoaxes report claimed that 79 per cent of women use alternative health treatments such as colonic irrigation, cupping and extreme detoxes.

However, GPs consulted in the research slammed the procedures, with 93 per cent saying they have no medical value and 92 per cent labeling them a waste of time.

The expert said that cupping therapies are the most pointless health fads, with vitamin B12 injections, extreme yoga, reflexology and macrobiotic diets also advised against.

Dr Douglas Wright, principal clinical consultant at Aviva UK Health, said it is concerning that people are seeking treatments because they believe celebrities are using them.

"What's more worrying is that some women are opting for treatment trends rather than seeking medical advice - they might not be fashionable but tried and tested health routes are far safer and more beneficial," he added.

Recent research from Eyecare Trust and Simplyhealth found that financial concerns are causing 74 per cent of people to delay having their sight tested.

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