In a digital world where wellness influencers and alternative healing gurus flood our social media feeds with glowing testimonials, juice cleanses, and miracle cures, it’s easy to get swept up in the promise of natural remedies. But behind the filters and hashtags, there are real consequences to the decisions we make about our health—consequences that can be life-altering.
Former MTV VJ and talk show host Ananda Lewis knows this all too well. In 2019, Lewis was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. At the time, her doctors recommended a double mastectomy, a procedure that could have drastically improved her prognosis. But Lewis, feeling overwhelmed and influenced by deeply personal experiences, chose a different path—one that many women today are seeing on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube: the world of alternative therapies.
The Appeal of “Natural” Healing
Lewis’ decision to decline surgery was shaped by multiple factors. As a stay-at-home mom homeschooling her son, she was daunted by the prospect of a major surgery and lengthy recovery. She also held a strong belief in the body’s ability to heal itself. Influenced by her mother’s experience with conventional treatments, Lewis turned instead to detox regimens, plant-based diets, lifestyle changes, and emotional wellness.
At first, it seemed to work. Her cancer was downgraded to stage 2, a result she attributed to her new holistic routine. But cancer is complex and unrelenting. Due to financial struggles and the difficulty of maintaining her regimen, Lewis’ health began to decline. Eventually, her cancer progressed to stage 4—a stage where treatment becomes far more difficult and outcomes less certain.
The Hidden Dangers of Social Media Health Advice
Ananda Lewis’ story isn’t a judgment—it’s a wake-up call. In her own words, she later expressed regret for refusing surgery and not getting regular mammograms earlier in life. Her experience is a deeply personal reminder that when it comes to health, especially something as serious as cancer, social media is not a substitute for science.
Wellness influencers often promote alternative therapies as quick fixes or safer, more “natural” solutions. But these posts rarely show the full picture. What’s missing are the rigorous medical evaluations, peer-reviewed studies, and clinical outcomes that back traditional treatment options. When young women see these messages repeatedly online, it can create confusion, fear of conventional medicine, and a false sense of control.
What We Can Learn from Ananda’s Journey
Lewis now advocates for a balanced approach—what many call “integrative medicine.” This method combines the best of both worlds: evidence-based traditional treatment alongside supportive alternative therapies like nutrition, mindfulness, and acupuncture. But the key here is that alternative therapies should complement, not replace, standard medical care.
Here are three important lessons from her experience:
1. Early Detection Saves Lives
Ananda now stresses the importance of regular mammograms, especially for women over 40 or with a family history of breast cancer. Detecting cancer early gives you more treatment options and a better chance of survival.
2. Personal Doesn’t Mean Perfect
The breast cancer journey is different for everyone. Emotional well-being, lifestyle, and personal values do matter. But these must be weighed alongside medical expertise. Being informed is not just empowering—it’s life-saving.
3. Don’t Let Social Media Decide for You
It’s okay to explore and ask questions. But don’t let influencers, unverified testimonials, or fear dictate your medical choices. Seek advice from licensed professionals, get second opinions, and use social media as a starting point for research—not the final word.
Final Thoughts
Ananda Lewis’ story is one of courage, love, and growth. She made the best decision she could at the time, based on what she believed and what she had access to. Her honesty in sharing her regrets and lessons makes her a powerful voice in a culture that often glamorizes wellness trends without showing the risks.
As young women navigating a world full of noise and filtered narratives, we owe it to ourselves to make informed, science-backed decisions about our health. There’s no shame in wanting a gentle approach—but when your health is on the line, choose what works, not just what sounds good.