Reality television sisters Sam and Billie Faiers have sparked a major backlash from the medical community following a series of controversial health claims made on their podcast and social media platforms. Experts have branded their advice as 'dangerous' and 'irresponsible'.
The former The Only Way Is Essex stars, who now front The Mummy Diaries, have been accused of undermining modern medicine by promoting unproven holistic alternatives. Their claims have drawn sharp criticism from doctors and health professionals.
'Curing' Chronic Illness Naturally & The Sunscreen Debate
Among the most contentious statements was the sisters' assertion that they had successfully treated chronic health conditions, including an underactive thyroid and the autoimmune disorder Hashimoto's, solely through natural methods, diet, and lifestyle changes, eschewing conventional medication.
In a further move that alarmed dermatologists, the pair questioned the safety of mainstream sunscreen products, with Sam Faiers stating she believes it is 'harmful' and instead advocates for natural alternatives and controlling sun exposure.
Medical Professionals Issue Stern Warning
The medical community was swift to condemn the advice. Leading health experts emphasised that while lifestyle changes can support management, chronic illnesses like Hashimoto's require proven medical treatment.
Doctors warned that dissuading the public from using high-factor sunscreen could lead to an increased risk of skin cancer, stating that the evidence for its safety and efficacy is overwhelming. The general consensus is that such influential figures have a responsibility to share evidence-based information, not personal anecdote that could jeopardise public health.
