When Likes Turn Toxic: The Link Between Social Media and Eating Disorders

In today’s digital world, social media is nearly inescapable. It connects, entertains, and informs—but for many young people, it also quietly harms. What starts as innocent scrolling can slowly turn into a dangerous obsession with appearance, especially when young users are bombarded with images and advice that promote unrealistic beauty standards. This toxic influence is now being linked to a rise in eating disorders among teens and young adults.

One of the biggest concerns is how social media promotes unrealistic body ideals. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are filled with highly edited, curated content where influencers and celebrities showcase “ideal” physiques—often very thin or hyper-toned bodies that don’t reflect reality. These narrow standards create pressure for young viewers to conform, even if it means harming themselves in the process.

Making matters worse, users are constantly exposed to dangerous diet trends that spread quickly across platforms. From glorified starvation diets to bizarre food fads, many of these trends are presented as empowering or “fitspiration,” when in fact, they can push vulnerable individuals toward disordered eating. Hashtags like #SkinnyTok are filled with guilt-inducing content that promotes eating far too little or using harmful substances like laxatives in pursuit of a thinner frame.

Over time, these messages begin to normalize harmful behaviors, such as meal-skipping, bingeing and purging, or extreme calorie counting. What should be recognized as symptoms of a serious mental health condition are instead shared casually or even celebrated online. Young people consuming this content may begin to view these behaviors as acceptable or even aspirational.

The cycle is further reinforced by the risk of addiction and denial. Social media rewards certain types of content with likes, shares, and followers. For someone with low self-esteem or poor body image, gaining attention for looking a certain way can become addicting. This reinforcement makes it harder to acknowledge a problem or seek help, as the attention provides a false sense of validation.

Sadly, these platforms also make it harder to recover once someone is struggling. Even when a person wants to heal, they may continue to be influenced by the endless stream of misinformation and triggering content. False diet advice, pseudo-fitness gurus, and pro-anorexia content can drown out professional guidance and delay recovery. This constant exposure can undo progress, discourage healthier habits, and even increase the risk of relapse.

So, what can be done? Education and open conversation are key. Parents, educators, and peers need to talk to young people about the content they’re seeing and help them separate fact from harmful fiction. Encouraging social media users to follow body-positive, health-focused creators—and take breaks when needed—can help create a more supportive environment. In some cases, stepping away from the platforms entirely may be necessary to protect mental health.

Social media isn’t inherently bad, but its unchecked influence can have serious consequences. By understanding the subtle ways it impacts body image and eating behaviors, we can work toward building safer online spaces and stronger, more resilient young people.

Note: While this article highlights the effects on young people, the impact of social media on body image and eating habits can affect individuals of all ages. Awareness and support are important for everyone.

Article By Suzy Nyongesa