Social media diet could lead to eating disorders

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2023-03-23 05:00

Australia; International

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There are concerns that social media use is a risk factor for young people developing eating disorders. Researchers reviewed work published between 2016-2021, and found evidence from 50 studies in 17 countries (including 12 studies from Australia) indicating that social media usage leads to body image concerns, eating disorders, and poor mental health. Some factors such as high BMI, being female, and having pre-existing body image concerns made people more susceptible, while appreciating your own body and having high social media literacy provided some protection. The authors say that body image dissatisfaction and eating disorders have been ignored as a global health issue, and they recommend more education and awareness, and early identification of at-risk young people.