Date of Award

5-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nutrition Science

Department

Health Science and Human Ecology

First Reader/Committee Chair

MALIK, NEAL

Abstract

Background and aims: For decades, the field of nutrition has been influenced by advertising, fad diets, and celebrity endorsements, often leading to confusion. Social media has introduced a new level of influence, potentially leading to more misinformation about health and nutrition. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook may serve as a primary source of news and information for young adults, drastically changing how nutrition advice is shared. Research suggests that social media can positively and negatively impact people’s views on health and nutrition, such as a poor relationship with food and a negative body image. This study aimed to identify how social media influences food choices and the views of nutrition information shared on social media.

Methods: Student participants were recruited from a mid-sized university located in southern California through email using a campus listserv on January 8, January 22, and February 5, 2025. Recipients were prompted to complete an anonymous 23-question survey. The survey questions were based on time spent on social media, the type of content consumed, and views on nutrition information shared on social media. A total of 418 students completed the survey, and 360 responses were analyzed. Data were organized and coded systematically, and data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 28 (SPSS v. 28).

Results: Pearson correlation tests were conducted, and several weak, positive relationships were discovered between following health or nutrition accounts on social media and trying a new diet (r = .283, p < .001), feeling pressured to change one's appearance or diet (r = .207, p < .001), and confusion about what constitutes a healthy diet (r = .104, p = .050). A moderate, positive relationship was found between exposure to health influencers’ content and the likelihood of participants attempting a new diet trend (r = .534, p < .001). Lastly, a weak, negative relationship was found between the amount of time spent viewing nutrition-related content and confidence in the accuracy of content seen (r = -.250, p < .001).

Conclusion: Despite social media being a motivator for some, it also perpetuates unrealistic health standards and feelings of pressure to change students’ diet or appearance. Exposure to non-evidence-based nutrition advice and conflicting information may lead to confusion, poor dietary habits, such as the implementation of restrictive diets promoted by influencers rather than qualified experts. While young adults use social media to engage with nutrition content, the confidence in its accuracy remains low. Social media provides an accessible space for sharing nutrition information, healthy recipes, and advice while also contributing to misinformation, fad diets, and unrealistic body standards. More nutrition professionals promoting evidence-based information online can help mitigate these negative effects and promote healthier lifestyles on a larger scale.

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