TikToker Bradley lives frugally, risks health without insurance

Maintaining a healthy relationship with money, much like with food, can be challenging. It's possible to be unaware of being caught in certain patterns, such as spending large sums right after payday or, conversely, hoarding money "for later," which never seems to arrive.

TikToker Bradley falls into the latter category. The influencer revealed that he once lived on the brink of poverty, which forced him to learn survival skills. Although he now earns a good income and has $250,000 in savings, he hasn't changed many of the habits that helped him endure difficult times.

Examples? Bradley doesn't eat out and prepares every meal himself. His diet consists almost entirely of chicken, sweet potatoes, eggs, and tortillas. Occasionally, he "treats himself" with a pineapple and his favorite yogurt. He can't recall the last time he bought new shoes, and when leaving his apartment, he unplugs all devices, including the refrigerator. He seldom buys gifts, opting instead to regift items he has received. While these practices may seem controversial, none is as debated as his lack of health insurance. His admission led to a flood of comments.

Bradley explained that in America, once you turn 26 years old, you can no longer be on your parent's insurance. The TikToker added that he was in a terrible financial situation a few years ago and couldn't afford insurance premiums. He also mentioned that he rarely becomes ill—maybe once a year—so an insurance "subscription" doesn't seem cost-effective for him.

Bradley shared that when he’s sick, he focuses on staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of hot water, which he finds effective. He reasoned that if he ever felt unwell enough to need medical attention, visiting a clinic would cost less than paying for insurance throughout the year. However, he clarified that he’s not advising others to adopt his approach, attributing his choices to a complicated relationship with money. In the video, he appears at home bundled up in a sweater, warm jacket, and hat, sitting under a heavy blanket—likely due to cutting back on heating to save on expenses.

The TikToker's video sparked serious concern among his audience, who shared a range of critical comments. Some urged him to prioritize health insurance, with one noting that urgent medical procedures could quickly drain his savings. Others pointed out the risks of unforeseen emergencies, such as car accidents, emphasizing that health insurance isn't just for minor illnesses like the flu. Another remarked that having substantial savings without insurance is shortsighted, while others labeled his approach as reckless rather than frugal, stressing that true wealth lies in safeguarding one's health.