Why Non-Specialist Doctors Shouldn't Give Dietary Advice on Social Media

Doctors are trusted sources of health information, but when it comes to nutrition, not all doctors have the training to provide or understand what is accurate or safe dietary advice. Recently, Dr Zoe Williams, a well-known doctor and TV personality, shared her personal experience with the ketogenic diet on social media. While she did not officially recommend it, her videos in her kitchen and displaying diet choices sparked concern among followers, especially those worried about foods like sourdough bread. I have received many private messages from people who saw my response to her and were too intimidated to challenge her directly. This situation highlights why doctors without specialised nutrition training should be cautious about giving dietary advice, especially on public platforms. I wish we lived in a world where everyone felt peaceful and confident about their own dietary paths, but it is not the case; Eating disorders are rife, devastating and dangerous: repercussions from them also cost the NHS a lot of money (potentially 15 billion pounds per year) - we should all be on board with preventing them.

Differences in Training Between Doctors and Nutrition Specialists

Medical doctors undergo extensive training in diagnosing and treating diseases, but nutrition education is often limited. Most medical schools offer only a few hours or days focused on nutrition, which is insufficient to understand the complex science behind diet and its effects on the body. In contrast, registered dietitians and nutritionists complete specialised education and supervised practice focused entirely on food, metabolism, and behaviour change. We then work intensively with them for years (I am almost hitting my 20th year in clinical practice and learning all the time).

This gap means doctors, even with the best intentions, may not fully grasp:

• The nuances of different dietary patterns

• How nutrition interacts with chronic diseases

• The psychological and behavioural challenges of changing eating habits

• The risks of popular diets for specific populations, such as women’s hormonal health

  
  

When doctors share personal diet experiments or general advice without this background, it can unintentionally mislead, shame or pressurise their audience.

The Complex Psychology of Food and Behavior Change

Changing eating habits is rarely simple. Food choices are deeply tied to culture, emotions, and social environments. Many people struggle with conflicting messages from influencers, friends, and media, which can create anxiety around food. For example, when someone worries about eating sourdough bread because of a viral diet trend, it adds unnecessary stress and can destroy health building habits (often painstakingly built over time, behind the scenes, by eating disorder specialist dietitians).

Doctors who are not trained in nutrition psychology might overlook how their advice affects people’s relationship with food. They may unintentionally contribute to:

• Food guilt and shame

• Disordered eating patterns

• Increased anxiety about eating

  
  

We need more compassionate, evidence-based guidance that promotes peace around food choices rather than pressure or fear. Doctors, or celebrities, are free to experiment with their diets as they wish - but why publicise it?

Why Ketogenic Diets Are Not Ideal for Women’s Hormonal Health

The ketogenic diet, which is very low in carbohydrates and high in fats, has gained popularity for weight loss and managing some medical conditions. However, research shows it may not be suitable for everyone, especially women. We need more time to assess how effective it is at helping with specific diseases/conditions. We know, already, how socially disruptive it is and socialised eating is a key part of a healthy relationship with food and promoting longevity.

Some studies suggest ketogenic diets can disrupt hormonal balance in women, potentially causing:

• Menstrual irregularities

• Fertility issues

• Mood swings and fatigue

  
  

Women’s bodies often require a more balanced intake of carbohydrates to support hormonal function. While some women may tolerate or benefit from keto temporarily, it is not generally recommended as a long-term diet for female hormonal health.

What Science Shows as the Healthiest Diets for Women

Research supports dietary patterns that emphasise whole, minimally processed foods, variety, and balance. Some of the healthiest diets for women include:

• Mediterranean diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, olive oil, and moderate fish and poultry. Linked to lower risk of heart disease and improved metabolic health.

• DASH diet: Designed to lower blood pressure, it focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.

• Plant-based diets: Emphasise vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains, with limited animal products. Associated with reduced risk of chronic diseases.

  
  

These diets support hormonal balance, provide essential nutrients, and encourage sustainable eating habits without extreme restrictions.

Recognising Disordered Eating Symptoms That Require Help

When dietary advice becomes rigid or fear-based, it can trigger or worsen disordered eating. Signs to watch for include:

• Obsessive calorie counting or food rules

• Extreme fear of certain foods or food groups

• Skipping meals or severe restriction

• Intense guilt or anxiety after eating

• Social withdrawal related to eating

• Bingeing, often on processed foods

  
  

If you or someone you know shows these symptoms, it is important to seek professional help from qualified therapists or dietitians specialising in eating disorders. Early support can prevent serious health consequences and even, sadly, death.

Encouraging Peaceful and Informed Food Choices

Food should nourish both body and mind. Doctors without nutrition specialisation should avoid giving detailed dietary advice on social media to prevent confusion and harm. Instead, they can:

• Encourage consulting registered dietitians for personalised nutrition guidance

• Promote balanced, evidence-based eating patterns

• Support mental health and positive relationships with food

  
  

We all benefit when food choices are free from pressure and fear, allowing people to enjoy eating while supporting their health. It is good to improve your diet where required, but this needs to be done in a way that doesn't risk disordered eating: nothing that points in that direction is a good thing for the long term.