Comprehensive review demonstrates conflicting effects of curated social media on body image and diet in young adults, highlighting avenues for positive digital health interventions.
Key Points
To examine the dual impact of social media imagery and algorithmic feeds on body dissatisfaction, disordered eating, and positive nutritional practices among young adults.
Synthesized empirical literature analyzing curated visual platforms (e.g., Instagram, TikTok) and online movements like fitspiration and body positivity.
Assessed psychological and behavioral outcomes related to diet, self-perception, and public health interventions across digital environments.
Curated fitspiration content and algorithmic feeds increase body dissatisfaction, social comparison, and restrictive dietary behaviors despite appearing health-oriented.
Body-positive (#BoPo) and intuitive eating campaigns reframe food as nourishment, fostering self-compassion and improving sustainable dietary adherence.
Strategic influencer partnerships and media literacy programs offer effective frameworks to counteract online nutritional misinformation and appearance-related pressures.