Apple Cider Vinegar, Coffee Enemas, and the Challenge of Wellness Misinformation

Wellness trends constantly evolve, often bringing controversial treatments into the spotlight. One of the latest debates surrounds coffee enemas, a practice that has resurfaced due to the release of Netflix’s new series Apple Cider Vinegar. The show explores alternative cancer treatments, raising curiosity and concern among viewers and medical experts alike.

Netflix’s Apple Cider Vinegar is inspired by real events in Australia, centering on Milla Blake, played by Alycia Debnam-Carey. The character is based on Jessica Ainscough, an Australian wellness influencer who attempted to treat epithelioid sarcoma through non-traditional methods, particularly Gerson therapy. This alternative cancer treatment promotes an organic, plant-based diet, combined with frequent coffee enemas intended to “detoxify” the liver. Ainscough shared her journey with over 1.5 million followers, becoming a wellness icon before her passing in 2015. Her story is a sobering reminder of the risks of relying solely on alternative therapies for serious medical conditions.

Coffee enemas, despite their popularity in some wellness circles, remain highly controversial. Coffee is known to have potential health benefits when consumed normally, such as improving gut health and reducing inflammation. However, using it as an enema comes with significant risks. Dr. Emily Leeming, a registered dietitian and gut health expert, emphasizes that “there is no credible evidence proving coffee enemas detoxify the body.” Instead, medical professionals warn that this practice may lead to infections, bowel damage, and even caffeine dependency.

Despite these warnings, cultural influences continue to fuel interest in alternative treatments. Following the release of Apple Cider Vinegar, Google searches for “benefits of coffee enemas” spiked by 300%, illustrating how entertainment can shape health trends—even when there is no scientific support.

The resurgence of coffee enemas is part of a broader issue within the wellness industry: the rapid spread of misinformation. Celebrities, influencers, and even television shows often glamorize treatments that lack medical validation, making it difficult for audiences to distinguish fact from fiction. While alternative therapies can sometimes complement traditional medicine, they should never replace evidence-based treatments, particularly for life-threatening diseases like cancer.

Jessica Ainscough’s story highlights the dangers of misinformation in the wellness space. While she strongly believed in natural healing, most individuals with her diagnosis who pursued conventional treatment outlived her. Her experience is a cautionary tale that underscores the importance of making informed health decisions backed by scientific research.

Ultimately, wellness should be about making informed choices rather than chasing misleading trends. Coffee may be an excellent morning drink and a useful ingredient in beauty treatments, but using it as a medical therapy is neither scientifically validated nor risk-free. As Apple Cider Vinegar sparks discussions around alternative medicine, it is crucial to separate entertainment from legitimate health advice.

For those seeking better health, consulting trusted medical professionals remains the safest approach—not following social media influencers or television dramas.