Online diet fads

Sarah Taryam, Arts Editor

One only has to scroll through social media for a minute or two before coming across a post about a new diet or a new way to lose weight from a “fitness influencer” or a “nutritionist.” This week we are taking a look at the online world of diet culture and its impact on our mental health and attitude towards weight loss.

Before you follow a fitness influencer check their credentials. Just because someone is posting pictures of themselves looking all toned and fit, it doesn’t mean they are in the position to give fitness or nutrition advise to others. Always check to see if the influencer has the certification to back up their claims.

Another thing we all need to remember is that one diet doesn’t fit all. Every body type is different and everybody will respond differently to an eating plan. Make sure the influencer or nutritionist you are following isn’t just dishing out the same diet advice to everyone who follows them.

You have probably seen the trend of influencers posting “What I Eat in a Day” videos, and maybe you have been inspired by them. It is a good idea to check why these types of videos have been made by the creator. Were they made to inspire viewers to eat healthier? Or are they saying that if you eat that certain way then you’ll end up looking like them?

It is easy to get lost in this online world of diet fads and trends. One must be very aware of the content they are following and keep a realistic grasp on what they are watching. It is very east to go down an unhealthy rabbit hole on social media, which is the last thing that anyone needs.