Laurann O’Reilly
Public Health & Corporate Nutritionist, Nutrition By Laurann
Social media enhances communication and connection but may pose potential risks to women’s health. Thankfully, strategies exist to promote safer usage and a healthier social media environment.
Constant exposure to curated images of beauty and success can negatively affect self-esteem. Women are often subjected to unrealistic standards, as many images and posts can be photoshopped, edited or enhanced, setting unattainable expectations. This can foster feelings of inadequacy, especially among young women and contribute to body confidence and self-image issues.
For this reason, it’s important for women of all ages to avoid comparing themselves to images that they see on social media. Instead, focus on your own health goals, which can include incorporating a healthy, balanced diet and exercise into your daily regime.
Being aware of misinformation
According to the most recent CSO Household Consumer Behaviour Report, over two-thirds (68%) of internet users are now going online seeking health-related information. While search engines can be a major source, social media misinformation and unqualified influencers can also have a negative impact on women’s health by promoting unverified or harmful health advice.
For instance, celebrities and influencers – often with large followings – may advertise weight loss products, unregulated supplements or fad diets or provide health advice without scientific backing.
Constant exposure to curated
images of beauty and success
can negatively affect self-esteem.
Safe social media usage
To encourage healthier digital habits and foster a more supportive online environment for women, it is important to set boundaries around social media use. This may involve limiting our time spent on these platforms and unfollowing accounts that promote unrealistic beauty standards.
We can also become more conscious of the curated nature of social media and avoid self-comparison. Most importantly, when it comes to health-related issues and for your safety, it is essential to only seek advice from qualified health professionals.
