Dr. Karan Rajan: How to Advocate for Yourself During GP Appointments

Health experts are increasingly concerned about the spread of medical misinformation on social media platforms, with many health trends gaining momentum without scientific backing. In a recent episode of The Independent’s Well Enough podcast, host Emilie Lavinia sought clarity on these issues by interviewing Dr. Karan Rajan, an NHS surgeon and author known for debunking health myths that circulate online.

The conversation addressed several health concerns that have captured public attention through social media. Dr. Rajan, who has built a substantial following as a medical myth-buster, tackled trending topics including the validity of “cortisol face,” “leaky gut syndrome,” and the effects of intermittent fasting, particularly on women’s health.

Cortisol, commonly known as the stress hormone, has become central to many wellness discussions. Claims about “cortisol face”—the idea that chronic stress causes distinctive facial changes—have gained traction on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. During the podcast, Dr. Rajan evaluated these claims against scientific evidence, offering listeners a more nuanced understanding of how stress might affect physical appearance.

The interview also explored “leaky gut syndrome,” a condition not formally recognized by conventional medicine but widely discussed in alternative health circles. The term refers to a hypothesized condition where the intestinal lining becomes more permeable, potentially allowing harmful substances to enter the bloodstream. Dr. Rajan addressed the scientific consensus—or lack thereof—surrounding this concept.

Intermittent fasting, one of the most popular dietary approaches in recent years, received particular attention during the discussion. While proponents tout its benefits for weight management and metabolic health, concerns have emerged about its specific effects on women’s hormonal balance. Dr. Rajan examined the research on gender-specific responses to fasting protocols, providing evidence-based insights into this controversial area.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Rajan emphasized the importance of returning to fundamental health principles rather than chasing trending interventions. He advocated for what he called the “unsexy but essential pillars of health”—likely referring to consistent sleep patterns, balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and stress management—instead of focusing on quick fixes or trendy wellness protocols.

The timing of this discussion is particularly relevant as health misinformation continues to proliferate online. A recent study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that health-related content on social media platforms often lacks scientific basis, with engagement metrics favoring sensational claims over evidence-based information. Medical professionals like Dr. Rajan have increasingly taken to these same platforms to counter misinformation with accessible explanations of complex health concepts.

The healthcare community has expressed growing concern about patients arriving at appointments with misconceptions derived from social media. According to a 2023 survey by the American Medical Association, nearly 80% of physicians reported regularly encountering patients who reference social media health trends during consultations.

For listeners interested in hearing the full discussion, the episode is available on major podcast platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. The Well Enough podcast, produced by The Independent, regularly features conversations with health experts on contemporary wellness topics.

This episode represents part of a broader effort by medical professionals to engage with popular media as a means of public health education. By addressing trending health topics directly, experts like Dr. Rajan aim to help consumers navigate the often confusing landscape of health information with greater critical thinking skills and scientific literacy.