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In a significant move that has raised eyebrows within the medical community, CBS has welcomed Dr Mark Hyman as a contributor to its news division, under the leadership of Bari Weiss. Known for his unconventional views on health, Hyman claims to have reversed his biological age by two decades and advocates for alternative therapies, including the use of cold plunges and dietary supplements. His appointment has ignited discussions about the potential implications for public health messaging and the credibility of mainstream media.
Controversial Health Claims
Dr Hyman, a prominent figure in the realm of functional medicine, has long been a polarising character. Accusations of “germ theory denial” have followed him, with critics questioning his approach to health and wellness. His assertions, such as the ability to treat autism with cod liver oil and to reverse conditions like Alzheimer’s through nutritional supplements, have drawn significant scrutiny. Harriet Hall, a medical author, has labelled him a “germ theory denialist,” while others in the medical field have described his practices as “pure quackery.”
His hiring appears strategically aligned with the interests of the current political climate, particularly amid the Trump administration’s emphasis on alternative health narratives. Hyman has collaborated closely with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Secretary of Health and Human Services, contributing to discussions around vaccine safety and the removal of certain preservatives, which he controversially connects to autism.
The Functional Medicine Debate
Functional medicine, which Hyman champions, aims to address the root causes of disease rather than merely treating symptoms. Proponents argue that this approach allows for a more personalised understanding of health. However, critics, including Jonathan Jarry from McGill University, contend that this model misinforms the public by steering health care providers away from evidence-based practices towards a lucrative wellness industry. Jarry warns that CBS viewers may be misled into believing that optimal health can be achieved through costly tests and unproven supplements.
The Institute for Functional Medicine, where Hyman serves as a board member, describes its mission as one that restores health by treating underlying dysfunctions. Yet, the scientific community remains sceptical, with many asserting that terms such as “leaky gut” lack legitimate diagnostic credibility. This scepticism is echoed by the American Council of Science and Health, which characterises functional medicine as a repackaging of alternative medicine concepts that have been widely debunked.
Connections to Silicon Valley and Political Backing
Hyman’s network extends into Silicon Valley, where he has garnered support from influential venture capitalists who have also backed Weiss’s previous initiatives. His company received early investments from Andreessen Horowitz, whose founders are known for their vocal support of Trump and conservative causes. This connection raises questions about the potential influence of political motives in Hyman’s health messaging.
The recent funding round for Hyman’s venture, Function Health, which employs a subscription model for functional medicine testing, has further elevated its profile, attracting significant investment and positioning the company as a key player in the wellness market. Weiss’s appointment at CBS, alongside Hyman’s inclusion, appears to signal a shift towards a more controversial editorial direction that may align with certain political ideologies.
Why it Matters
The decision to integrate Dr Mark Hyman into CBS News represents a broader trend towards the normalisation of alternative health narratives within mainstream media. As public trust in traditional health authorities wanes, the implications of promoting figures like Hyman could have far-reaching consequences for public health awareness and education. By endorsing unverified health claims, CBS risks misleading a vast audience, potentially exacerbating health misinformation in an era already filled with scepticism towards established science. The intersection of media, medicine, and politics in this scenario will likely shape public perceptions of health and wellness for years to come.
