Instagram Wants Your Money. YouTube Wants Your Content.
You’ve probably asked:
Should I focus on YouTube or Instagram?
Both platforms have large audiences. Both offer opportunities. But when it comes to long-term visibility, organic reach, and content performance, they’re very different.
Here’s the truth:
Instagram wants your money. YouTube wants your content.
Why is YouTube Is the Best Platform for Health Creators?
YouTube is more than a social media site—it’s the second largest search engine in the world. And unlike Instagram, where content fades quickly, YouTube videos can grow in popularity over months or even years.
YouTube Content Compounds Over Time
- Evergreen content thrives. Educational videos, tutorials, exercise demos, or condition explainers continue to be discovered long after they’re posted. Often many years after!
- Search-based discovery. YouTube ranks content based on relevance, retention, and engagement—not just recency.
- Long shelf life. A well-made YouTube video can become a permanent part of your digital library, attracting views while you sleep.
If you're creating high-value health content, YouTube gives your work the space to compound in reach and authority over time.
Why Instagram’s Organic Reach Is Declining
Instagram is a powerful branding tool—but it’s increasingly driven by paid content. Have you noticed this?
- Most posts disappear within 24–48 hours.
- Paid content is prioritized in the algorithm, especially for business accounts.
- Even verified badges now require monthly payment (often £11.99–£394.99 per month for businesses).
- Boosting posts is often necessary just to reach your own followers.
Instagram still has its place, especially for real-time engagement, community-building, and stories—but it’s become harder to grow without a paid strategy.
Organic Growth on YouTube Is Still Possible. See my latest video below.
Unlike Instagram, YouTube doesn’t require ad spend to succeed. High-quality, helpful content still drives real, organic results.
- YouTube’s algorithm rewards retention and relevance.
- Videos can rank in Google search, YouTube search, and suggested video feeds.
- Viewers discover you while actively searching for health-related topics.
For creators in the wellness, physiotherapy, or fitness space, this means your content can work harder and reach further without constant reposting or payment.
In some cases, paying to promote a video on YouTube may actually harm performance by attracting lower-quality views and reducing watch time. Note this is not verified but is a common statement I hear from other YouTube creators.
YouTube vs Instagram: What’s Best for Your Content Strategy?
| Feature | YouTube | |
|---|---|---|
| Content Lifespan | Long-term | Short-term |
| Discovery Method | Search, browse, suggested | Feed-based |
| Organic Reach | Strong | Limited without ads |
| Paid Boosting | Optional | Often necessary |
| Best For | Educational & evergreen content | Community & brand personality |
Final Thoughts
If you’re a health creator choosing between Instagram and YouTube, consider what your content needs:
- Lasting visibility? Go with YouTube.
- Quick engagement? Use Instagram—strategically.
- Organic growth over time? YouTube is still the best platform for health creators.
As I said: Instagram wants your money. YouTube wants your content*
*Which it then uses to make money but then shares it with you once monetised.
If your goal is to build trust and long-term authority, YouTube gives you the tools to grow—without constantly paying to be seen.
Learn everything you need for your video and YouTube journey with me on Health Creator Pro
