Let Go of the Halo...
Let go of the halo...
Have you heard of the health halo effect?
The health halo is this belief that a food, product (such as a type of supplement), or brand is superior in healthfulness based on a single claim (or perception).
Here are some examples:
People often consider foods that are “low fat” as also being “low calorie” or foods with “no added sugar” as healthy, potentially leading to an overconsumption of that food.
The latest supplement will somehow stop aging when there is no evidence. But the celebrity who uses it looks fantastic, so it must be true.
Or the belief that the organic brownie that costs three times more at that grocery store must be healthier.
The health halo effect is the result of great marketing.
It is often related to assumptions by a consumer based on a lack of knowledge. It could be from seeing advertisements or a friend suggesting a product.
Is there anything wrong with this? Short answer: it depends.
Some of these items with a health halo are harmless overall: a brownie is a brownie, right?
Some companies may get themselves in trouble: Ferrero had to pay millions of dollars in a class action lawsuit because of the implication that Nutella was healthy, and people were not happy to find out it wasn’t.
However, the issue is more likely when someone thinks the food or supplement, or other product has a benefit when:
There isn’t one (no benefit) - neutral or no impact.
There is possible harm due to an interaction related to a preexisting health condition or medication - negative impact.
They are not following recommendations to manage a health condition due to this product - negative impact.
Or, like with the Nutella lawsuit and settlement, people find out they have been misled, and their health (and the health of their family) goes down - a negative impact.
When choosing a food, a supplement, or a product that you think is healthier for you, consider this:
Why are you choosing this specific item?
Who suggested this particular item?
What is the reason this item is “superior”? Is it superior? Is it healthier?
A brownie is a brownie - no matter the ingredients or who sells it (even black bean brownies are still brownies).
Am I buying something because it tastes good, has a known benefit, or because someone implied it was better? Did an ad imply it was healthy?
Take note of what you may have given a health halo and consider whether it is healthier.
What are things in your life that you may have elevated as healthier when it isn’t? Or is there something you aren’t sure about - is this a better choice? Make a note in the comments or send us a message.
