Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, Volume 51, Issue , Page 1-18, January 2026.
With over 5 billion users engaging with curated content on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, social media presents a complex influence on body image and dietary choices among young adults. This comprehensive review examines how idealized imagery and algorithmic content contribute to body dissatisfaction, social comparison, and disordered eating behaviors, particularly through “fitspiration” posts that often promote restrictive diets and nutritional inadequacies despite appearing motivational. However, body-positive movements such as #BoPo and intuitive eating campaigns demonstrate promising outcomes, reframing food as nourishment and significantly increasing self-compassion and sustainable eating habits. Nutrition professionals face challenges from widespread misinformation and complex message design considerations, yet strategic partnerships with influencers, media literacy initiatives, and functionality-focused content show potential for improving adherence to balanced nutrition while reducing appearance-focused pressures. Moving forward, inclusive longitudinal research across diverse populations and emerging digital environments like the metaverse is needed to develop equitable interventions. This article demonstrates how social media’s extensive reach can be leveraged to promote positive health outcomes, encouraging practitioners to harness these platforms for sustainable well-being rather than perpetuating harmful ideals.Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, Volume 51, Issue , Page 1-18, January 2026. <br/> With over 5 billion users engaging with curated content on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, social media presents a complex influence on body image and dietary choices among young adults. This comprehensive review examines how idealized imagery and algorithmic content contribute to body dissatisfaction, social comparison, and disordered eating behaviors, particularly through “fitspiration” posts that often promote restrictive diets and nutritional inadequacies despite appearing motivational. However, body-positive movements such as #BoPo and intuitive eating campaigns demonstrate promising outcomes, reframing food as nourishment and significantly increasing self-compassion and sustainable eating habits. Nutrition professionals face challenges from widespread misinformation and complex message design considerations, yet strategic partnerships with influencers, media literacy initiatives, and functionality-focused content show potential for improving adherence to balanced nutrition while reducing appearance-focused pressures. Moving forward, inclusive longitudinal research across diverse populations and emerging digital environments like the metaverse is needed to develop equitable interventions. This article demonstrates how social media’s extensive reach can be leveraged to promote positive health outcomes, encouraging practitioners to harness these platforms for sustainable well-being rather than perpetuating harmful ideals. Read More