I know this is a bit of a different area for me, but in these times, it needs to be discussed. This issue is directly affecting myself and other practitioners.
Shadowbanning has become a buzzword in the digital world, but its subtle, almost invisible nature makes it a challenging issue to address. For those advocating for natural health, shadowbanning on platforms like Meta (Facebook, Instagram) and YouTube has significant implications. These platforms use AI-driven algorithms to moderate content, which often deprioritizes posts that promote alternative health approaches, challenge mainstream narratives, or discuss natural remedies.
As concerns about misinformation grow, so does scrutiny around content that strays from the norm. Unfortunately, this has led to the suppression of topics ranging from intermittent fasting and ketogenic diets to centuries-old herbal treatments.
In this blog, I’ll explore how Meta and YouTube are using shadowbanning to control health narratives, its impact on natural health advocacy, and the broader implications for public health awareness.
Understanding Shadowbanning: A Subtle Form of Suppression
Shadowbanning is a form of content suppression where posts are made less visible or less likely to appear in user feeds without the content creator’s knowledge. Unlike outright bans, where users receive notifications or alerts, shadowbanning is a stealth operation. It operates through algorithms that downrank certain posts, reducing their reach and engagement.
For natural health advocates like myself, this means our content might not be seen by the intended audience, even if it follows platform guidelines. It’s difficult to know when we’re being shadowbanned, as there is no direct feedback, just unusually low viewing in stories or insights.
How Meta Uses AI Algorithms to Control Health Narratives
While Meta’s leadership claims to support freedom of speech, the platform's content moderation relies heavily on AI algorithms that flag and downrank content considered "borderline" or potential "misinformation." While these measures were initially meant to curb false information, they have inadvertently affected discussions around natural health. Terms like "keto," "intermittent fasting," and "herbal supplements" have been associated with lower visibility because they often conflict with mainstream medical guidelines.
Many content creators report decreased engagement when posting about natural health remedies. For instance, posts discussing supplements like ashwagandha or CBD often see reduced reach, with fewer interactions. This pattern suggests that certain keywords trigger algorithmic suppression, making it harder for advocates of natural health to share their insights.
YouTube’s Approach to Content Moderation: A Closer Look
YouTube, like Meta, has implemented strict content moderation policies around health-related topics. Videos that address natural health remedies, alternative treatments, or practices like intermittent fasting often face demonetization, reduced visibility, or outright removal. The platform uses AI to scan content for keywords that could be flagged as misinformation, leading to suppression even if the information is well-researched and credible.
A key issue on YouTube is the demonetisation of videos discussing topics that contradict mainstream health narratives. Videos promoting dietary approaches such as the ketogenic diet or the benefits of natural supplements like quercetin are often demonetised, making it challenging for creators to generate income from their educational content. This discourages the discussion of diverse health options, leading to a one-sided narrative. Very Orwellian.
Impact of Shadowbanning on Natural Health Advocacy
The suppression of natural health content on platforms like Meta and YouTube has far-reaching implications.
These platforms are crucial for educating the public about alternative health approaches and empowering people to make informed decisions about their wellbeing.
When algorithms shadowban content, it limits the reach of these messages, making it harder for audiences to access diverse viewpoints on health.
The Double Standard: Mainstream Narratives vs. Alternative Approaches
One of the biggest concerns is the apparent double standard in content moderation. While discussions around alternative health approaches are often flagged, mainstream narratives from government bodies, pharmaceutical companies, and mainstream media are allowed to circulate freely, even when they contain questionable information.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, there was an intense focus on controlling misinformation about vaccines and treatments. However, mainstream outlets and government officials were not subject to the same scrutiny when presenting information that later proved to be misleading or inaccurate. Meanwhile, content creators who discussed alternative therapies, lifestyle adjustments, or raised questions about mainstream approaches faced shadowbanning and reduced visibility.
I'm sure many people would have made very different decisions had there been transparency around the covid products.
The Australian Misinformation and Disinformation Bill: What It Means
Recently, the Australian government proposed the Misinformation and Disinformation Bill to regulate content deemed misleading or false. Though not yet passed, the bill has sparked significant debate among free speech advocates, particularly in the natural health community. The concern is that if enacted, it could lead to even stricter controls over what can and cannot be said about health, potentially amplifying the shadowbanning practices already seen on platforms like Meta and YouTube.
Centuries-Old Remedies Are Under Threat
Throughout history, natural remedies have been used to treat various health conditions. From herbal teas to traditional medicines, many of these practices have stood the test of time. However, in the digital age, centuries-old remedies are increasingly facing suppression on major platforms. Natural supplements like turmeric, ginger, dandelion and moringa are often flagged as "unverified" or "misleading," limiting their visibility.
The irony is that many of these natural treatments have a long history of efficacy, backed by generations of use and even modern scientific studies. Yet, they are treated with the same level of scrutiny as untested claims, simply because they don’t fit into the conventional pharmaceutical model.
I feel Hippocrates would be turning in his grave.
Alliance for Natural Health and the Fight Against Suppression
The Alliance for Natural Health (ANH) has been actively campaigning for more transparency in content moderation practices. They argue that discussions about natural remedies and alternative health should not be stifled, especially when based on credible, science-backed information. By advocating for balance and transparency, ANH hopes to create a more inclusive environment where diverse health perspectives can thrive.
Stay Informed and Connected
The issue of shadowbanning has real consequences for how we access information about natural health. If you’d like to stay connected and continue receiving uncensored content, consider signing up for my newsletter. By subscribing, you'll get updates directly in your inbox, free from algorithmic interference.
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